Falls can cause serious injuries and reduce a person’s confidence when standing or walking. Adults age 65 and older face a greater risk because balance, vision, and muscle strength can change with age. Foot pain, numbness, and weak ankles can make each step less steady. A podiatrist can assess the feet and ankles to identify problems that affect stability. This assessment includes checking joint movement, muscle strength, and sensation. The podiatrist can also study how a patient stands and walks.
Properly-fitted shoes are an important part of fall prevention. Shoes with wide soles, low heels, and slip-resistant outsoles can provide a more stable base. Secure laces or fasteners help keep the feet from sliding inside the shoes. Soles should be firm enough to provide support but flexible enough for a natural step. A podiatrist can check whether a patient’s shoes fit correctly and meet their needs. Custom orthotics can improve weight distribution and support foot alignment. They can also reduce painful pressure that changes the way a person walks. When foot pain is controlled, patients may feel more confident and move with greater stability.
Strong feet and ankles help the body respond to changes in the ground or an unexpected loss of balance. Research suggests that foot-strengthening exercises can increase foot strength and reduce concerns about falling. A podiatrist can recommend safe movements based on the patient’s health, balance, and ability. The plan can focus on foot strength, ankle control, and steadier movement. Regular foot exams are also valuable because reduced feeling, painful joints, or skin problems can make walking less secure. The podiatrist can treat these concerns and monitor changes that could raise fall risk. Patients should seek prompt care after a fall or when they notice frequent stumbling, new weakness, or trouble feeling the ground. If you have injured your foot and ankle from falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and additional fall prevention tips.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Mark Poplawski, DPM from Jersey Shore Podiatry, LLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
