September is Falls Prevention Month, so we at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists are speaking to the groups most at-risk of falling. What should a senior do to prevent their fall risk? And what other not-so-obvious people are susceptible to slipping, tripping, and injuring their feet? We’ll be covering all that and more below.
Seniors might not have the same balance or muscle strength they once did, and our joints can get a bit stiffer. The all too common osteoporosis doesn’t make things easier. In fact, it makes bones more brittle and raises the risk of foot fractures and ankle sprains.
The (up)right thing to do: Focus on gentle, balance-centric exercises like Tai Chi or yoga, wear podiatrist-prescribed shoes and orthotics, and make your home safer by clearing hallways and securing rugs.
If you're already dealing with a foot problem, you're on high alert for a fall. Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet can change how you walk and affect your balance, especially when you wear high heels or exercise vigorously.
The (up)right thing to do: Custom orthotics to help correct walking issues and provide a stable base; physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve balance.
Think about what happens if you can't feel your feet properly. This loss of sensation makes it incredibly difficult to tell if you've stepped on an uneven surface or if your foot is placed correctly.
The (up)right thing to do: A combination of proper foot care and protective footwear. Avoid going barefoot wherever you go.
Even athletes in great shape aren't immune. If you’re expected to return quicker than you should from a foot injury, especially in sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis, it can lead to ankle sprains that may not heal completely and result in chronic ankle instability. This leaves the ankle feeling wobbly and prone to rolling, and therefore falling.
The (up)right thing to do: Focus on a structured rehabilitation program after any injury, and do regular balance exercises.
Medication side effects are an overlooked cause of falls. Sedatives, certain antidepressants, or blood pressure medications are notorious for symptoms like dizziness and drowsiness, which, of course, can cause you to fall.
The (up)right thing to do: Talk with your doctor if you are experiencing loss of balance.
When your vision is poor, it becomes much harder to spot hazards on the ground like cracks in the pavement, a change in flooring height, or small objects.
The (up)right thing to do: If you are an at-risk senior already, speak with your primary care doctor to address your vision problems.
For any podiatric concerns you’re facing, come see Dr. Hubert Lee and the team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists for guidance and advice. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.
