Did you know 1/3 of the population over 65 falls each year? Every 11 seconds an older adult is rushed to the emergency department due to a fall. Every 19 minutes, an older adult passes away from a fall.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over 2.5 million adults were treated for nonfatal injuries in emergency departments in 2013. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in older adults. Most people don’t think about keeping their balance in shape until it is too late and they suffer a fall. The good news is most falls can be prevented with little effort or simply by regular challenging/exercising your balance system. If you have sustained a balance-related injury, it is important to seek the help of physical therapy immediately to avoid additional injuries in the future.

You should contact a physical therapist if you have any of the following symptoms:

            Dizziness, Nausea or vertigo (“spinning” sensations, even when remaining still)

            Difficulty with focus or remaining alert

            Double/tunnel vision

            Arm/leg weakness

            Abnormal eye movements

Difficulty standing up from a seated position or with standing for prolonged periods of time

If you are afflicted by any of the above conditions, contact Stafford Physical Therapy today so we can help you figure out the root of your problem and treat it accordingly.