How Physical Therapy Will Help You Stay On Your Feet
Are you 65 or older? Do you have a chronic health condition like arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes? If so, you may be at a high risk of falling. Physical therapy at Priority Physical Therapy can give you the tools you need to stay on your feet.
Falls are a significant concern, especially as we age–the physical and sensory changes brought about by aging can increase your fall risk. In addition, other age-related conditions can also lead to falls, such as neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease or stroke.
A bad fall can severely impact your life, causing injury or even hospitalization. Furthermore, many people find that their fear of falling will prevent them from doing the activities they most enjoy, keeping them from the active, engaged lifestyle that’s such an essential part of healthful aging.
Fortunately, our team of experts knows how to treat conditions that lead to falls. We can also address general balance and instability issues. We’ll help you build strength and improve your overall stability while suggesting mobility aids or lifestyle modifications.
Our customized treatment plans are based on the latest research and are geared toward helping you achieve your personal mobility goals. With physical therapy at Priority Physical Therapy, you’ll develop the confidence to keep moving!
Our skilled physical therapists will help you regain your confidence and independence, one step at a time. Request your appointment today!
Factors That Can Increase Your Fall Risk
There are many reasons why someone might have an elevated fall risk. Our team of physical therapists will start by looking at any conditions or factors that might make you more likely to fall. From there, we’ll be better able to tailor your treatment to suit your needs.
Here are some of the common factors that contribute to an increased fall risk:
- Aging: Our bodies naturally experience a decline in physical function as we age, leading to slower reflexes, reduced muscle strength, and decreased flexibility, all of which contribute to increased fall risk.
- Decreased proprioception: Proprioception is our awareness of our body, and like other physical functions, it decreases as we get older. Diminished proprioception can make it challenging to adapt to changes in terrain or movement and cause unsteady gait and poor balance.
- Neurological conditions: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease and stroke can lead to muscle stiffness, tremors, or impaired coordination, further exacerbating the risk of falls.
- Vestibular disorders: Inner ear problems can cause dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues, making it challenging to maintain equilibrium and increasing the risk of falling.
- Joint instability and stiffness: Stiff or unstable joints can limit your range of motion, reducing your ability to maneuver effectively and increasing the risk of falls. Joint issues may cause discomfort or pain, which further compromises mobility.
By addressing the root causes of falls, our skilled physical therapists will help you improve your balance, stability, and confidence. No matter the reason for your fall risk, we’ll find solutions that work for you.
Schedule your initial consultation at our Palmyra, MO or Florence, SC physical therapy clinic today!
Proven Treatment Techniques for Reducing Your Fall Risk
Our physical therapists always begin with a comprehensive evaluation process. By assessing your medical history, pre-existing conditions, medications, and injuries, we can identify all possible factors contributing to your risk of falling.
In addition, our specialists will perform movement screens, including gait analysis, balance, and coordination tests. These screens provide valuable insights into your movement patterns, postural stability, and potential areas of concern that may increase your fall risk.
Some potential treatments we might include in our fall prevention programs in Palmyra, MO or Florence, SC include the following:
Strength Training
These targeted exercises will improve muscle strength and endurance, providing the necessary support for stable movement and posture. We always start at your current ability level and build your strength over time.
Balance and Coordination Training
These specialized exercises and techniques will enhance your reactions to obstacles and changes in direction. For example, we might include drills to reduce sway and improve your ability to recover and maintain balance during daily activities.
Gait Retraining
We provide individualized guidance and exercises to optimize walking patterns, reduce compensations, and enhance overall mobility.
Targeted Mobility Work
Stretching and different mobilization techniques can increase joint range of motion and alleviate muscle stiffness, allowing for smoother and more coordinated movements.
Assistive Devices
In some cases, an assistive device, such as a walker or cane, may be the key to ensuring you can move with confidence. Our team will help select the right device for you and train you in its use.
Environmental Modifications
Finally, we can recommend adaptations to your living space to minimize fall risks, such as decluttering, improving lighting, and installing grab bars or handrails where needed.
Once we completely understand your situation, we’ll develop an evidence-based treatment plan that addresses all areas of concern. We pull from the latest research and proven treatment options to help you improve your balance, coordination, and overall function.
Book your consultation with our expert physical therapists now, and let us assess your risk and guide you toward a safer, more active lifestyle.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!
