Core Products Highlights Foot Drop Awareness During Falls Prevention Awareness Month
Company encourages older adults, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to recognize changes in walking as part of a
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OSCEOLA, Wis., Sept. 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Core Products International, a leading manufacturer of orthopedic supports, therapeutic products, and wellness solutions, is raising awareness of foot drop during Falls Prevention Awareness Month. The campaign encourages older adults, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to recognize changes in walking and consider them alongside factors such as strength, balance, vision, medications, and home safety when evaluating fall risk.
Falls are the leading cause of injury for Americans age 65 and older. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 14 million older adults – approximately one in four – report falling each year. 1 Older adult falls also account for about 3 million emergency department visits and approximately 1 million hospitalizations annually.2
Fall risk is often shaped by a combination of contributing factors rather than a single cause. Lower-extremity weakness, balance impairments, vision changes, medication side effects, and environmental hazards in the home can all affect postural stability. Changes in gait may also warrant closer attention. Foot drop is a condition in which a person has difficulty lifting the front of the foot, which may result in toe dragging or compensatory movements while walking.
“Falls prevention begins with recognizing risk factors, including changes in the way a person walks,” said Robert Cooper, President of Core Products International. “During Falls Prevention Awareness Month, we want to help more people recognize the signs of foot drop, seek an appropriate professional evaluation, and understand that different support options may be available as part of a broader mobility plan.”
For individuals diagnosed with foot drop, Core Products offers the FootFlexor® Ankle Foot Orthosis (AFO), a flexible support designed to provide adjustable dorsiflexion assistance during the swing phase of walking. The tension-cord system helps lift the forefoot to support toe clearance while allowing the foot to move more naturally than many rigid orthoses. The lightweight design works with lace-up shoes or boots and can be adjusted for the user’s support needs.
The FootFlexor is an established Core Products solution that may still be unfamiliar to many people living with foot drop. It is available in two size ranges and includes adjustable components for a personalized fit. Replacement clips and tensioners are also available. The FootFlexor should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can help determine whether an AFO is appropriate for an individual’s condition and mobility needs.
Core Products also encourages older adults and caregivers to take proactive fall-prevention measures: remove loose rugs and clutter, improve lighting, participate in appropriate strength and balance activities, review medications and vision with healthcare professionals, and use trusted screening resources such as the National Council on Aging’s Falls Free® Checkup. Falls Prevention Awareness Week will be observed September 21-25, 2026.
About Core Products International
Core Products International is a Wisconsin-based manufacturer of orthopedic supports, ergonomic comfort, wellness, and therapeutic products designed to improve daily living. For more than three decades, the company has developed innovative solutions focused on support, mobility, recovery, and overall comfort. Trusted by healthcare professionals and consumers, Core Products remains committed to its mission of “Making YOUR Life More Comfortable.”
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Older Adult Falls Data. Updated February 26, 2026. CDC- Older Falls Data
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts About Falls. Updated January 27, 2026. CDC – Facts About Falls
For additional information contact:
Core Products International, Inc.
Lisa Williams – Creative Manager
800-365-3047
lwilliams@coreproducts.com
https://www.coreproducts.com/
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