Every year in the United States, one out of three older adults (age 65 or older) experiences a fall. According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries, and are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries. Falls can also result in fractures of the spine, pelvis, hip, arms and legs. In 2010, the direct medical cost of falls was $30 billion! There is good news, however, as many problems that can increase the risk falls are treatable. Some treatable problems include:
- Difficulty with walking, balance deficits, and lower extremity weakness
- Problems with vision
- Medications
- Foot problems and unsafe footwear
- Fluctuating blood pressure
- Tripping hazards in the home
At Motion Physical Therapy, we will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation to determine your risk of falling and any physical impairment that you might have that could contribute to that risk, and then we will develop an individualized program to help you to prevent falls. Some of the tools we use to complete this assessment include:
- An assessment of gait, balance, flexibility, lower extremity and trunk strength, and mobility level
- An assessment of feet and footwear
- An assessment of neurological function, cognitive function, proprioception and reflexes
- An assessment of visual acuity
- An assessment of cardiovascular status
An assessment with you and your family that helps to identify hazards in the home and any necessary modifications. When we have completed the assessments that are appropriate for you, we will develop an individualized treatment plan to address the issues we have identified. Our experienced therapists and staff at Motion Physical Therapy will make use of cutting edge equipment to improve your balance, strength and coordination. We can assist you in the use of appropriate assistive devices if they are needed to help with safe mobility, and can help you plan out ways to make your daily life safer and fall free.
We will repeat our balance assessment tests on an ongoing basis to monitor your improvement so you know you are getting stronger and safer.
At Motion Physical Therapy, we are passionate about our patients. We strive to provide treatment that will restore you to your highest level of performance at your job, your sport and all of your daily activities. Through our use of cutting edge science, human kinetics and technology, we will work to keep you free from pain and keep you healthy.
Motion Physical Therapy Fall Prevention Program
