Services

Fall Prevention

Fall Prevention Programs at The Therapy Center

Every second of every day, an adult over 65 years old will suffer a fall in the United States, making falls the leading cause of injury and death. One out of every 4 older adults will fall each year. About 36 million falls are reported with more than 32,000 deaths. One out of every five falls will cause an injury and at least 300,000 are hospitalized for hip fractures alone. Women fall more often than men. Therefore, evidence and statistics prove that falls are one of the most common geriatric syndromes threatening your independence and life.

Falls are due to multiple causes. Risk factors for falls include muscle weakness, a history of falls, use of four or more prescription medications, use of an assistive device, arthritis, chronic pain, depression, age, poor posture, and sensory changes.  Impairments in gait, balance, cognition, vision, strength, and activities of daily living will increase your fall risk. Reducing visual dependence, as well as improving somatosensory and vestibular control will be part of your treatment at THE PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER.  We specialize in the care of older patients. The most effective fall prevention strategies are multifactorial interventions which target your risk factors, and include exercises for muscle strengthening, gait, and balance. A home exercise program is also critical.  Even if you require physical therapy for other orthopedic problems, injury or are post-surgery you may be at a risk for a fall.

Falls result in poor quality of life, loss of mobility, functional decline, and even a nursing home placement. Falls lead to anxiety, depression, feelings of helplessness, and social isolation.

Tips which help include

  • Talking to your Physical Therapist and/or Physician
  • Report a fall right away
  • Review all your medications with the prescribing physician especially if they cause dizziness or sleepiness. Some over the counter medications and herbal supplements can increase your fall risk
  • Have your eyes checked yearly and uptake glasses. Conditions like cataracts and glaucoma limit your vision
  • Have your feet checked

Of great importance and take-home message is:

  • Stay active
  • Be faithful with a prescribed strength, posture, and balance program
  • Get rid of the hazards in your home
  • SEEK TREATMENT FROM A SPECIALIZED FALL PREVENTION AND GERIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPIST

THE PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTER SPECIALIZES IN FALL PREVENTION, SO GET STARTED AND SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY.