Systematic Review on Socks and Stability: A Global Analysis of the Impact of Socks on Balance and Gait

Background Balance and gait are essential components of human movement, relying on effective postural control, sensory input, and neuromuscular responses. Specialised socks, including compression, textured, nonslip, and sensory-enhancing designs, have gained attention for their potential role in improving balance and gait stability. Objective: The systematic review aims to evaluate the effects of different sock types on gait, balance, and proprioception in healthy adults. Methodology A systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria focused on RCTs involving healthy adults using various sock types as intervention, with gait and balance as outcome measures. Databases searched included PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and the Cochrane Library (2013–2023). Results Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings indicate that compression socks significantly improved postural control, ankle joint position sense, and reflex responses ( p < 0.05). Nonslip socks enhanced stability on slippery surfaces, reducing postural sway ( p < 0.001). Textured socks improved proprioception and sensory feedback, particularly in older adults ( p < 0.05). General balance improvements were noted across studies, though physical training appeared more influential than sock type. Discussion Longitudinal studies are needed to assess their combined impact with rehabilitation programmes for mobility and fall prevention. Specialised socks offer affordable, accessible interventions for enhancing postural control, sensory feedback, and stability. Compression, nonslip, and textured socks provide unique benefits, complementing traditional balance and gait training strategies.