“I felt embarrassed because it seemed like
I was walking like I was intoxicated.”
Unfortunately, her fall was only the start of a difficult year. The fall left her in extreme pain. After some time putting up with the pain, she was found to have a broken hip! She had to be hospitalized for a hip replacement surgery. The procedure was successful, but had consequences. Due to a prolonged time of inactivity the client suffered with being weak and, ironically, feeling even more unsteady!
Having a fall can be serious business and have long term consequences. When you feel unsteady there are things you can do to improve your balance. If you are unsure if you are at risk for a fall, there are ways to test your body for balance. I urge you to read ahead if you have ever worried about falling!
Let’s review some screening tests to determine if you are at risk and identify where you may be vulnerable to fall.
Do any of these statements apply to you?
If one or more of those statements/questions apply to you, it is time to do an at home balance screen.
Below is a short balance screen that you can perform in the comfort of your own home. No excuses that you “feel embarrassed” about looking “wobbly like you’ve been drinking.” Check if you can perform the tasks below for the allotted time or repetitions. (Please be safe! Do this with someone else in the home or do the screen close to a chair/wall for support.)
Before you begin, watch this video for a brief overview to help you understand the tests.
So, how did you do? Were you able to confidently complete the balance screen? If you struggled with any of the tasks, I encourage you to make some changes to help build confidence…and balance! The first step is to start completing simple balance tasks at home. I recommend that you complete this training DAILY! This will give your body the input it needs to make lasting change.
Try out these tasks to start improving your balance today.
Watch this video for a brief overview to help you understand the exercises.
Did you struggle to complete the balance training tasks I included here? If you feel unsafe or unsteady practicing balance at home, it is time to take the next step (pun intended) and speak with an expert!
I help people in your shoes everyday! I can help you identify areas that make you vulnerable to fall, and work with you to create a tailored program to strengthen your specific weaknesses.
So before this Autumn passes you by, let me help you avoid the Fall. Take charge of your balance for healthy aging and confidence!
Article by: Ali Zeno, DPT
Ali can be contacted at Lifestrength Physical Therapy at her e-mail or by calling 410-321-4901
Reference: CDC program STEADI
