The list of answers to this question is extensive, and figuring out which issue or issues are increasing your fall risk can be challenging. Fortunately, working with a physical therapist can help you identify and address the balance issues you have. 

Every time we get up from a chair or walk around, we need to balance ourselves. However, our ability to maintain our balance often erodes as we age; medical research suggests that more than 25% of older Americans suffer a fall each year. A physical therapist can work with you to determine what is increasing your fall risk and help you find ways to improve your balance. 

These are some common issues that can increase your fall risk

The human musculoskeletal system is a complex one, and many of its parts are involved in helping people keep their balance. This includes structures like nerves, muscles and joints. Your eyesight and vestibular system are also critical to maintaining balance. An issue with any of these body structures can increase your risk of falling. 

A few of the issues that can lead to a greater chance of taking a spill include: 

• Diabetic neuropathy in the feet and legs.
• Inner ear issues like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
• Problems with how you walk (gait). 
• Osteoarthritis in your knees, hips or ankles. 
• Side effects from prescription medications. 

Ways your physical therapist can help reduce your fall risk

Physical therapists can help you address many of the physical issues that can lead to losing your balance. Some of the techniques your therapist can use to assist you are: 

• Vestibular rehab designed to address the root cause of BPPV.

• Therapeutic exercises designed to strengthen the muscles that help you maintain balance. 

• Joint mobilization sessions intended to improve the function of arthritic joints. 

• Gait training sessions that can improve your leg and foot movement during walking. 

Continuum Wellness offers physical therapy that can address balance issues

Ready to find therapeutic care that can help you address specific balance issues? Our team at Continuum Wellness offers physical therapy that can help meet your needs. We’ll start by doing a free screening that can pinpoint what issue(s) are affecting your balance. Then, our physical therapists will create a personalized therapy plan designed to help improve your ability to balance. Even better, we can help you right from your own home thanks to our at-home care and virtual therapy services. 

Contact our team today for more information about how we can help you with balance problems or to schedule your initial appointment.