Specialties

Fall Prevention

Fall prevention in physical therapy is a specialized area of practice that focuses on helping people reduce their risk of falling. Physical therapists who specialize in fall prevention use a variety of techniques to help people improve their balance, strength, and coordination. Falls are a major public health problem, especially among older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in three adults over the age of 65 falls each year. Falls can lead to serious injuries, such as fractures, head injuries, and even death. There are many things that can increase the risk of falling, including:

• Age: The risk of falling increases with age.
• Preexisting medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease, can increase the risk of falling.
• Medications: Some medications, such as sedatives and diuretics, can increase the risk of falling.
• Vision problems: Vision problems can make it difficult to see obstacles and maintain balance.
• Environmental hazards: Environmental hazards, such as loose rugs and uneven surfaces, can increase the risk of falling.

Physical therapists who specialize in fall prevention can help people reduce their risk of falling by:

• Evaluating their risk factors: The physical therapist will assess the person’s risk of falling by looking at their medical history, medications, vision, and environmental hazards.
• Developing a personalized fall prevention plan: The physical therapist will develop a personalized fall prevention plan that includes exercises to improve balance, strength, and coordination. The plan may also include recommendations for making environmental changes to reduce the risk of falls.
• Monitoring progress: The physical therapist will monitor the person’s progress and make adjustments to the fall prevention plan as needed.

Fall prevention in physical therapy is an effective way to reduce the risk of falls and improve quality of life. If you are concerned about your risk of falling, talk to your doctor or a physical therapist about fall prevention. Here are some of the benefits of fall prevention in physical therapy:

• Reduced risk of falls: Fall prevention can help to reduce the risk of falls by improving balance, strength, and coordination.
• Improved quality of life: Fall prevention can help to improve quality of life by reducing the fear of falling and allowing people to participate in activities they enjoy.
• Increased independence: Fall prevention can help people to maintain their independence by reducing the risk of falls and allowing them to live safely in their own homes.