Fall Prevention

Physical Therapists are experts in the art and science of the evaluation and treatment of human movement and balance dysfunctions. We care for a variety of muscle, joint, and nervous system disorders that can affect your balance.

DON’T IGNORE THE FACTS:

  • One of every three persons age 65 and older falls each year.
  • Falls are the leading cause of injury and accidental death in those over the age of 85.
  • In 2005, 15,800 people 65 and older died from injuries related to unintentional falls.
  • About 1.8 million people 65 and older were treated in ERs for injuries sustained from falls (CDC 2008).

RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH FALLS:

  • Older Age
  • Vision Problems
  • Muscle Weakness
  • Medications (being on 4 or more)
  • A History of Falls
  • Medical Conditions (such as diabetes, arthritis, stroke, walking problems, fear of falling)

YOUR PHYSICAL THERAPIST WILL ASSESS:

  • Your Fall Risk
  • Your Strength
  • Your Balance
  • Your Medical History

* Cited from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2008 www.cdc.gov.

Strategies that may help reduce the risk of a fall include:

  • Don’t let clutter accumulate, especially on the floor.
  • Use a walking stick, cane, or walker for improved stability.
  • Wear supportive, rubber-soled shoes to improve traction, but avoid “sticky” rubber soles.
  • Walk on grass when sidewalks are slippery.
  • In winter, use kitty litter or salt to address icy sidewalks.
  • Be careful on slippery, polished floors, such as marble.
  • Avoid walking in stocking feet or slippers.
  • Avoid using throw rugs, or make sure they have skid-proof padding or have been tacked to the floor.
  • Be sure carpets are wrinkle-free.
  • Use a rubber bath mat in the shower.
  • Be sure all stairways have handrails and bathrooms have grab bars near the bathtub or shower and toilet.

Evergreen Physical Therapy Fall Prevention at the Following Locations:

Big Rapids

1268 W. Perry Avenue
Big Rapids, MI 49307

Phone: 231-796-4419
Fax: 231-796-4980

Midland

2600 N Saginaw Road, Ste C
Midland, MI 48640

Phone: 989-837-1529
Fax: 989-837-2499

Clare

107 Schoolcrest Ave.
Clare, MI 48617

Phone: 989-386-9170
Fax: 989-386-9220

Gladwin

1206 North State St.
Gladwin, MI 48624

Phone: 989-246-2311
Fax: 989-246-2315

Harrison

158 North First St., Ste D
Harrison, MI 48625

Phone: 989-539-4167
Fax: 989-539-4436