Rehabilitation can prevent falls.

It is estimated that half of individuals 65 and older will experience a fall with about five percent of such falls resulting in fractures. In the US alone, there are more than 200,000 hip fractures each year.

Falling is directly related to balance and gait. As we grow older, it is natural that balance, strength and flexibility diminish. But fortunately, there are ways to improve our ability in these areas through rehabilitation.

The first step toward improvement is to find out if your gait or balance has diminished. This can be determined by having a licensed physical therapist conduct an evaluation.

If the evaluation shows that your gait or balance is impaired, the therapist can set up a rehabilitation program to increase your strength and flexibility, activities to increase balance and coordination, and gait training. Such programs not only decrease the likelihood of falling, they also tend to make you more physically active and healthier. Individuals who have improved their gait and balance often feel more comfortable moving around their homes and have less fear going out to shop or visit friends.

There are several symptoms that suggest difficulties with gait or balance. Some of the more common ones are:

• If you are taking medications for at least two of these conditions: heart disease, hypertension, arthritis, anxiety or depression
• If you have a history of falls
• If you have experienced any numbness or loss of sensation in your legs or feet, or dizziness when walking
• If you have a fear of falling

If you, or someone you know, exhibit these or similar symptoms, taking part in a rehabilitation program conducted by a licensed physical therapist might prevent a future fall, and a serious injury.

 

Southwest Regional Rehabilitation Center 393 E. Roosevelt Battle Creek, Michigan  49017 269.965.3206