You might be surprised to know that, according to the Centers for Disease Control, one in four adults over the age of 65 falls each year in the United States. Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury for older adults, and as physical therapists, we know that many things can be done to reduce the risk of falls.

If you or for a loved one would like to take steps to reduce the risk of falling, we can help. Our experienced physical therapists take a proactive approach to Balance Retraining and utilize a wide variety of methods to treat balance problems and prevent falls, including Gait Training, if applicable.

Patients may be at a higher risk of falling due to:

• Age (patients over 65 are at greater risk, and risk increases with age)
• Inner Ear Problems
• Medical conditions (stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, diabetes)
• Medications which may cause side effects (blood pressure and antidepressants, in particular)
• Muscle weakness
• Sedentary lifestyle

DID YOU KNOW? Sometimes the fear of falling leads seniors to live a more sedentary lifestyle, which can actually increase their risk for falling, if it causes them to gain weight, lose muscle strength, or feel less sure of themselves.

Don’t let balance problems limit your life or the life of your loved ones. Our experienced physical therapists can evaluate your risks, and develop a Balance and Fall Prevention program that addresses your individual needs. Your therapist will take your goals, lifestyle and physical environment into consideration, and prescribe any movements, exercises, stretches, accommodations or other therapies that will help to:

• Reduce the fear of falling
• Reduce the risk of falling
• Improve strength, balance and posture
• Increase flexibility, mobility, fitness, and quality of life
• Increase awareness about all that can be done to reduce the risk of falling

Call today to find out how Balance and Fall Prevention can benefit you. To schedule an appointment with one of our physical therapists, please call our Brecksville office at (440) 746-1730, or call the Twinsburg office at (330) 963-2920, or submit an appointment request online. Same-day appointments may be available, so please call the office of your choice if you wish to be seen today.