KTAL hosted Elite Physical Therapy’s Mark Hart, PT, Clinic Director of Elite Physical Therapy’s Bossier Clinic, to discuss fall prevention for older adults. While most people think of physical therapy as a place for recovery after surgery or an injury, physical therapy also plays a huge role in wellness and fall prevention.
“About 25% of older adults will have a fall at some point within the year. And one in five of those will be serious enough to break a bone. As movement therapists and movement specialists, that is not the kind of movement we want to see,” explained Hart.
When a patient comes in for fall prevention treatment, the physical therapist will initiate a comprehensive evaluation process, including an initial evaluation, which entails actively listening to the patient to learn about their fall patterns. Following the initial evaluation, the physical therapist will complete an objective evaluation involving strength, range of motion, and balance tests. One of the more popular tests is the TUG test (Timed Up and Go), in which a patient begins sitting in a chair. They’ll then stand up, walk 10 feet, turn around and sit back down. If they cannot do that in 12 seconds, they’re at a higher risk for falls.
A person’s balance plays a huge role in whether they’re more prone to fall. “Balance comes from three different body systems. It comes from your vision, your vestibular system, which is in your inner ear, and your sensory feedback or proprioception system, which is the ability to feel yourself in space.” So, following the initial evaluation, a physical therapist can integrate exercises and tests to improve a patient’s balance, such as squats or reaching exercises.
If you have any questions regarding falls or fall prevention, request an appointment with an Elite Physical Therapy physical therapist today. To watch Mark’s full interview, click here: Fall Prevention for Older Adults.
