Our 6 Top Tips for Preventing Falls
During September, we recognize National Falls Prevention Month. So today, Dr. Mark Thompson and Dr. Brandon Holloway of Amarillo Foot Specialists located in the Amarillo, TX panhandle want to provide you with some information regarding falls and how we can help seniors avoid them.
It’s estimated that every 10 seconds, a senior is treated for an emergency fall injury. Falls are the principal cause of both fatal and non-fatal accidents among seniors. The good news is that there is a lot that can be done to reduce the risks of falling.
Our 6 Top Tips for Preventing Falls:
Stay in shape. Regular exercise will strengthen muscles and support your feet’s flexibility. It also helps keep your weight down, which puts less strain on your feet. Participate in exercise classes that are focused on improving balance.
Get regular eye exams. Diminishing vision can be subtle, but even a slight reduction or a change in peripheral vision or depth perception can elevate your risk for falling.
Address pain or discomfort in the lower extremities. When your legs, ankles, toes, or knees hurt, you are at an elevated risk of losing your balance as you try to adjust the way you walk to decrease your pain. Discuss these issues with your podiatrist.
Examine your home for hazards. Make sure all pathways are cleared of cords, stacks of magazines, and small, low-to-the floor furniture. Install grab bars for the toilet and in the shower. Put anti-slip strips on the floor of the tub. Install extra lighting in stairways and hallways and get rid of throw rugs.
Review your medications with your doctor. Ensure that there are no interactions that can potentially cause you to become lightheaded or dizzy.
Make sure shoes fit properly. Have your feet professionally measured. Get rid of shoes that are stretched and worn out.
Dr. Mark Thompson and Dr. Brandon Holloway of Amarillo Foot Specialists located in Amarillo, TX want to be your partner in preventing podiatric problems. We want to be more proactive about your foot health, so contact us today at (806) 322-3338 to schedule your next appointment.