Balance and Fall Prevention
Poor balance is one reason that people fall, but falls can also be caused by a combination of personal and environmental factors, including certain medications. Before beginning any treatment program, a physical therapist will review your medications and may consult with your physician.
The initial visit includes an evaluation of sensation, strength, vision, flexibility, coordination and vestibular (inner ear) function--all of which contribute to balance. The therapist will also consider lifestyle factors that can present obstacles such as poor lighting, furniture, or area rugs and environmental factors such as crowds, noise or curbs, which may also increase the risk of a fall. Often the same conditions that cause one person to fall does not result in a fall for another. Individualized treatment programs, taking into consideration specific impairments and lifestyles are designed for each person.
Individuals do not need to have fallen to be at risk for injury. The fear of falling can cause a person to avoid activities, which leads to loss of strength or flexibility and can actually increase the risk of falling. Exercise and activity have been shown to be effective in preventing falls. The exercise program needs to be designed at a high enough intensity to result in improvements but not so hard that it leads to more falls. Components of the physical therapy program may include:
- Testing of balance during certain activities
- Exercises to improve strength, flexibility and balance
- Advice about shoes, assistive devices, and changes to make at home that will mprove safety
- Communication with your physician
