It is estimated that 1 in 4 Americans 65 and older fall each year. At LaBorde Therapy Center our Physical and Occupational Therapist are experts in Fall Prevention. Our therapist will evaluate and develop a specific plan catered towards your needs.
Factors that attribute to Falls and Balance Issues:
- Decreased flexibility in ankle, knees, and hips
- Decreased muscle strength of lower extremities and core
- Decreased endurance due to sedentary lifestyle
- Natural aging process (decreased eyesight, reaction time and feeling in feet)
- Comorbidities including stroke, Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, spine injury, orthopedic surgery, vestibular problems
- Decreased proprioception
- Poor posture
- Medications that cause dizziness or BP changes
Physical Therapy Prevention Program
Physical Therapist with evaluate and Investigate:
- Number of falls in past year
- Trouble with ADL (activities of daily living)
- Activities that cause falls
- Does room spin? Are symptoms worse in the dark?
Specific tests performed to determine:
- Flexibility
- Strength
- Coordination
- Visual Tacking
- Proprioception
- Balance
Physical Therapy Goals
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ImproveStrength by setting up exercise program to address particular muscle weakness or increase overall strength
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ImproveFlexibility by stretching tight muscle groups
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ImprovePosture by making patient aware of faulty body position that can lead to loss of balance
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ImproveBalance by teaching exercise to improve both static and dynamic balance
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ImproveMobility by choosing activities that help patient to move around with more ease, coordination and confidence
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IncreaseMobility by choosing activities that help patient to move around with more ease, coordination and confidence
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ReduceFear of falling with positive reinforcement of successful recovery
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ReduceFall risk by making patient aware of importance of decreasing household hazards such as loose rugs, poor lighting, aned other obstacles
Tips for Gait
Tips for Balance
