Fall Prevention
Specialized treatment to reduce risk of falling
The experts at Dignity Health Physical Therapy provide comprehensive care to help reduce your risk of falling and maintain or increase your independence.
When the body is thrown off balance, there are a normal series of specific “righting reactions” the body goes through to keep from falling. As we age, the body begins to lose control of that reaction and eventually response time can become sluggish, resulting in an increased risk of falls.
Through our fall prevention program, we can help you strengthen your posture, mobility and coordination.
Who benefits from fall prevention?
Falls are the most common cause of emergency room visits and leading cause of fatal injury among older adults, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Regardless of the injury, falls can greatly impact quality of life for older adults often due to fear. If you or your loved one fears falling, you are more likely to limit your activity and suffer further physical decline, social isolation and depression.
Don’t live in fear. Let our compassionate team help you stay or return to living a full, independent life.
How physical therapy can help
Our therapists will evaluate your risk of falling by assessing your balance, mobility and strength. We will work closely with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that includes balance training and strengthening exercises.
These specific exercises are designed to help your body practice the balance righting series and allow reaction times to be more automatic, helping to decrease your risk of falls. The therapist will ask about your daily routine and make recommendations to address home, work and community environments risk factors that may contribute to increased fall risk.