Falls Prevention and Balance

What are the leading contributors to why someone would be at risk for falls?

  • Vision and sensory impairments

    • Cataracts, macular degeneration, peripheral neuropathy etc.

  • Medication side effects

  • Environmental hazards

    • Poor lighting, cluttered floors, rugs, stairs, lack of railings/grab bars

  • Underlying conditions

    • Dizziness

      • Vestibular issues, orthostatic hypotension, medications

    • Unsteadiness

      • Parkinson’s, diabetes, arthritis

An elderly person sitting on the floor with a hand on their forehead, appearing distressed, in a room with sunlight and a window.

How can physical therapy help?

Skilled balance training is tailored to the specific factors affecting each individual’s stability and mobility. Treatment may focus on improving strength and function, developing compensatory strategies for conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, and practicing balance recovery techniques to help improve confidence, mobility, and reduce fall risk