It’s Time to Talk Fall Prevention
Fall prevention is critical, since falls are the top cause of injuries and death from injury for older Americans. To help spread awareness, your Westfield, IN podiatrist is helping mark September’s Fall Awareness Prevention Month with tips for protecting you and your loved ones from dangerous falls.
9 Keys to Fall Prevention
Want to reduce your risk of falling? Check out these 10 tips to help keep you safe.
1. Examine your feet. If you notice changes in the shape your feet, make an appointment with our office right away.
2. Wear shoes that keep you safe. Choose rubber or nonskid soles that fit well. Athletic shoes are a good choice, but flats with low heels are a decent back-up. Don’t wear flip-flops, backless shoes or slippers. And never walk around in stocking feet, even when indoors.
3. Check your medications. Talk with your primary care physician about your medications at every visit. The way your body reacts to medications can change as you age, so certain medications that were once fine may now increase your risk for falls. Your health care provider can help review your medications and offer added fall prevention suggestions.
4. Check your vision and hearing. Problems with vision or hearing can lead to falls. Get your eyes checked once a year, and your hearing and inner ear health every other year.
5. Remove hazards from your home. Be sure to remove items that you can trip on like throw rugs, boxes or cords.
6. Exercise. Simple stretching exercises can help you maintain strength, balance and mobility. We can help you determine which exercises are best for fall prevention.
7. Improve your balance by wearing orthotics or foot braces. They will give your ankle extra support while walking. Orthotics put your foot back in the ‘neutral’ position for more stability while walking. For some of our patients, orthotics will offer sufficient fall prevention. But if we determine your risk is high, we also offer the Moore Balance Brace. This brace provides maximum balance and stability for older adults with ankle instability and mild foot drop. It also helps people who walk with difficulty or have a history of falls. Finally, the Moore Balance Brace also provides support for individuals who have been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, ankle osteoarthritis and vestibular disease.
Remember, just one fall can rob you of your independence, dramatically reducing their quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Dr. David Sullivan today to learn how taking good care of your feet and ankles can reduce the risk of a life-altering slip, trip or fall.