What are the risks of falling?
The risk of falling increases with age, but falls can happen to anyone, at any time, for many different reasons. Most cases of falling involve several different causes or risk factors. Some of the more common types include:
•Muscle weakness, especially in the legs
•Lack of vitamin D
•Trouble with walking or balance
•Side effects of medications like sedatives, antidepressants, or cold medicine that can cause drowsiness or dizziness
•Poor vision
•Loss of hearing
•Foot pain or improper footwear
•Uneven flooring or stairs
•Clutter in the home•Consumption of alcohol
•Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, or confusion
•Fainting or loss of consciousness
•Poor balance
•Incontinence that causes frequent or urgent trips to the bathroom
•Drop-in blood pressure
•Walking on ice or wet floors
If you find that you are dizzy or otherwise losing your balance, don’t ignore it. It’s important to seek help as soon as balance issues begin. A lot of people wait too long. But the longer you wait, the worse it can get.How can physical therapy help prevent falls?Improving your walking skills —technically known as your “gait” —and your balance are interrelated challenges. At Restore PT & Wellness / FYZICAL Ashburn Therapy & Balance Centers, we help you
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