Physical Therapy For Gait and Balance Training

Assessment | Education | Treatment | Self-Care

Balance & Fall Risk

For people above 65, falls are the leading cause of death from injuries. Since 2003, the U.S. Congress has backed research and education on preventing falls, and enacted legislation in 2006 and 2007 to safeguard seniors from falling. Medicare also recommends its patients to have a Fall Risk Assessment every year.

Fall Risk Assessment

Fall risk assessments help address the fear of falling. In addition, the assessment is the first step to creating the best plan of care for the individual. Early intervention can provide the greatest chance to reduce the anxiety associated with the fear of falling as well as the risk of a debilitating fall.

Individual Risk Factors

Research has shown five leading risk factors that are most significant when assessing fall risk.

  • Muscle weakness
  • History of falls
  • Gait deficit
  • Balance deficit
  • Use of an assistive device

Balance & Gait Training

Physical therapy for gait and balance training at Orthopaedic Team Rehabilitation addresses all of the leading risk factors by providing evidence-based treatment to address:

  • Muscle strength
  • Balance during standing and walking
  • Functional limitations

Balance and Fall Prevention Patient Guide

Years of research has shown eleven risk factors that are most significant when assessing fall risk. The risk factors are reviewed in our Patient’s Guide to Physical Therapy for Balance and Fall Prevention.

If you or someone you know has just one the risk factors, there is a 27% chance of a fall within 1 year. Four or more risk factors increase the chances to 78%.  Falls in the 65+ age group are one of the leading causes of hospitalization. Many falls can be prevented with early physical therapy intervention.

Orthopaedic Team Rehabilitation Balance and Fall Prevention Guide