Forefoot or rearfoot textured insoles influence postural sway and plantar pressure during quiet standing in community-dwelling older adults

Background: Plantar cutaneous sensation declines with age, leading to alterations in the plantar pressure distribution and increased postural instability in older adults. Textured insoles stimulate the plantar surface, which can modify plantar pressure distribution and improve postural sway during standing. Although the distribution of plantar cutaneous receptors varies across regions of the plantar surface, the effects of region-specific plantar stimulation on plantar pressure distribution and postural sway remain unclear. This study aimed to examine the effects of region-specific plantar stimulation using textured insoles on postural stability and plantar pressure during quiet standing in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: Forty-three community-dwelling older adults (men and women) participated in this study. Postural stability was assessed by measuring the center of pressure (COP) using a force platform, and plantar pressure was measured using a pressure distribution measurement system. COP and plantar pressure were recorded simultaneously. Textured insoles were randomly inserted to stimulate the different regions of the plantar surface, and postural stability and plantar pressure were measured during quiet standing with eyes closed. Results: Textured insoles applied to the forefoot significantly increased plantar pressure in the lateral forefoot region. However, no significant differences in COP were observed among the insole conditions. Conclusion: Forefoot textured insoles can alter plantar pressure during quiet standing in older adults, which may influence postural control. Further research is needed to examine other factors influencing postural sway and to explore interventions for older adults at risk of falls. • This study examined how forefoot or rearfoot textured insoles affect standing balance in older adults. • Textured insoles inserted in the forefoot or rearfoot altered plantar pressure distribution. • No significant effects of textured insoles were found on postural sway during standing. • Partial textured insoles may influence plantar pressure in standing older individuals. • These findings suggest localized foot stimulation modifies plantar loading patterns.