Hi, my name is Chelsey Barroso. I’m a physical therapist with the Tahoe Forest Health System at our outpatient clinic. Today I’m here to talk to you a little bit about balance and reducing your risk for falls.
Did you know that the number one risk for falls is actually a fear of falling? Fear of falls can lead to slower walking times and crippling fear of ending up on the floor, and can cause more imbalance and instability. Did you know also that your balance system is made up of your eyes, your ears, and knowing where your body’s at in space? If any of these three systems has an impairment, it can really contribute to an increased risk for falls and reduce confidence scores.
A few exercises that you can start with are practicing taking big steps forward and back. If that starts to feel easy, you can incorporate a side step, or even just a straight backward step and return to your starting position. Another exercise you can do is practice moving your hips forward and back, this will help you develop your hip strategy and can reduce your risk of falling backwards. And lastly, you can also practice standing with your feet together or even semi-staggered. I like to encourage people to do this every morning and evening while brushing your teeth, to get good, consistent practice daily.
If you have any questions or think you might benefit from a balance assessment, please ask your primary care provider for a referral to see your physical therapist. If you are looking for any more information, please visit our website.
