Being a Physical Therapist at Affiliated Foot and Ankle Center, LLP, I treat many balance and gait deficits. One of the major complaints from my patients is the fear of falling. Many patients ask me “Why am I losing my balance, I used to be in such good shape?” A fall can change your life. If you’re elderly, it can lead to disability and a loss of independence. If your bones are fragile from osteoporosis, you could easily break a bone. Aging alone doesn’t make people fall. Diabetes and heart disease can also impair your balance. A decrease in sensitivity in your feet can decrease your ability to balance. Altered balance can also be related to problems with circulation, thyroid or nervous systems. Some medicines or changes in dosages can make you dizzy. Being dehydrated can make you weak and also alter your balance. Eye problems or alcohol can be factors that affect your balance. Any of these things can make a fall more likely.
Taking care of your health by exercising and getting regular eye exams and physicals may help reduce your chance of falling. Many times it could be a simple change in vision that may affect your balance. Getting rid of tripping hazards such as clutter in your home and wearing nonskid shoes may also help. Do not walk in socks, stockings or slippers. Being aware of your surroundings will help to prevent falls. For example, when sidewalks are wet and slippery, walk on the grass because it provides better traction. Make sure your stairs are well lit and have rails on both sides. Put grab bars on the bathroom walls near the tub and toilet. To reduce the chances of breaking a bone if you do fall, make sure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D.
If you do experience any changes in balance, it is important to see a specialist. It is crucial to evaluate a balance deficit for effective treatment before the problem gets worse. At our offices in Howell, Edison, Monroe and Carteret, we have the capability with our diagnostic tools to evaluate for balance impairments. Our foot and ankle specialists will test your balance, nerves, sensitivity, circulation, and muscle strength to assess for balance deficits and give you the treatment you need to reduce your risk of falling and injuring yourself.
By Valerie Gregory, MSPT, CKTP
