Tips for Fall Prevention

• Posted on: Sep 13 2017
• By: AdvancedPMR

Falls can cause significant injury as well as reduce your independence. Injury due to a fall can make daily living difficult and exhausting. According to the APTA, one third of people over the age of 65 and about one half of people over the age of 80 will fall at least once this year. Physical Therapists play a major role in diagnosing the reasons and reducing the risk for falls. Physical Therapists help screen your fall risk through evaluation of the following:

• Medical History
• Medications
• Vision
• Home Set Up
• Balance
• Vitals
• Footwear
• Neurological Function
• Muscle Strength
• Walking Exam

After an evaluation, a Physical Therapist will work with you in order to address your deficits and improve your likelihood of preventing a fall.

How To Reduce Your Risk of Falling

There are many steps you can take on your own to reduce your fall risk including:

• Change in Footwear
  • High heels, slippers and flip flops can increase your risk for falls. You should consider shows with no-slip soles to improve steadiness and support while you walk.
• Remove Hazards in the Home
  • Remove clutter on the floor to reduce the risk of tripping and stumbling.
  • Move tables and other furniture from areas that you often walk through.
  • Use double sided tape to fasten area rugs or remove rugs from your home.
  • Store clothes, dishes and food within arms reach.
  • Use hand rails, bath seats and other assistive devices when necessary to reduce unsteadiness.

Contact us today if you are worried about your risk for a fall, to work with one of our skilled physical therapist’s to improve your safety.

Helpful Links

http://www.moveforwardpt.com/symptomsconditionsdetail.aspx?cid=85726fb6-14c4-4c16-9a4c-3736dceac9f0
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358?pg=2

Posted in: Ankle/ Foot, Fitness, Health & Wellness, Knee, Physical Therapy