Although it is true that older people are much more likely to lose their balance, thereby leading to a fall, it is also true that balance issues can be caused at any age by a number of different things, such as inner ear infections and the side-effects of certain medications.
If you feel light-headed, dizzy, or that you are floating or that the room is spinning – it is time to talk to your doctor or physical therapist – because when you begin to fear falling, you tend to stop moving – which causes your muscles and tissues to get weak and fragile – which in turn makes it more likely you will fall. It really is the proverbial “vicious cycle.”
Preventing a fall is sometimes as easy as walking with an assistive device – such as a cane or walker – or wearing low-heeled shoes, or removing throw rugs and other household obstacles that can cause you to trip. Grab bars and hand rails can be installed in strategic locations throughout your home to make it easier to maintain your balance while engaging in certain activities – such as bathing.
Of course, exercise and therapy are very important in your fall-prevention plan as well – because strong muscles, bones and tissues make it less likely you will suffer a fall – and make it much more likely you will recover quickly if you do fall. Please contact us today for an appointment if you or someone you love has been sidelined by balance or fear-of-falling issues. We can help – and we’re anxious to get you back to doing what you love!
