Home Fall Risk Checklist

The following is a series of the most popular questions and answers about balance and falling

1.  Have you fallen before? Were you injured when you fell?

          People who have fallen before are more likely to fall again.  Change habits & reduce risk factors               that contributed to your fall.  Keep access to emergency help.

2.  Have you stopped doing any daily activities because you’re afraid of falling?  Do you avoid                            exercise because you’re afraid of falling?

           Fear of falling may cause exercise and activity avoidance leading to further balance loss and                   risk of falls.  Discuss your fears with your physical therapist.

3.  Has your strength decreased?

           Weak hands and arms reduce balance reactions that help prevent falls.  Avoid carrying objects                that may reduce balance.  Discuss exercise with your physical therapist or physician.

4.  Has your eyesight diminished?  Do you have trouble seeing depth or seeing at night?

           Vision problems may reduce acuity, night vision, depth perception and balance.  Have your                      eyes tested by a doctor.  Use nightlights.  Tape / Paint obstacles, stairs, and edges.

5.  Have you experienced hearing loss?

              Hearing is associated with balance.  Have your hearing tested by a qualified professional.                         Wear a hearing aid as needed.

6.  Do you have foot ulcers, bunions, hammertoes, or calluses that hurt or cause you to adjust your                   steps?  Do you have sensation loss in your feet or legs?

               Painful feet or loss of sensation can reduce balance (BioQ Pulse can help.  Discuss walking                       devices, shoes, and orthotics with your physical therapist.

7.  Do you feel unsteady on your feet?  Do you shuffle when you walk?

                 A steady stride and balance prevents falls.  Discuss ambulatory devices (cane, walker, etc.),                      exercise, and proper balance training with your physical therapist.

8.  Do you feel weaker than you used to ?  Do you have less strength in your arms and legs?

                Weakness can make activities more difficult and reduce balance.  Discuss the right exercise                       options with your physical therapist or qualified trainer.

9.  Do you experience incontinence?

                 Incontinence can lead to falls while rushing to the bathroom.  Discuss incontinence                                      treatments with your physician.  Install nightlights to light the way to your bathroom.  Adjust                 bed height at the frame, spring, or mattress.  Low beds are difficult to rise from.  High beds                       are easy to slide off.  A qualified Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist can help:                                                       https://pt-connections.com/pelvic-floor-treatment

10.  Do you feel dizzy when you stand up?

                   Dizziness causes disorientation, fainting, and balance loss.  Get tested for postural                                       hypotension.  See your physician.  Change positions carefully.

We hope the above information has helped you Balance Better and Prevent Falls.

Physical Therapy Connections, P.C.

www.PT-Connections.com

(719) 565-6678