What’s Your Fall Risk?

It’s a startling statistic, but as many as 50% of older adults will suffer a fall this year. In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury and the fifth leading cause of death for senior citizens. At NY Foot Health, we know there’s a direct connection between the health of your feet and reducing fall risk. If your feet or ankles hurt or are not functioning properly, you’re much more likely to alter the way you walk and trip or fall. It’s important to talk to your podiatrist about your podiatric conditions and to assess your risk of falling. If you don’t currently have a podiatrist, we can help you locate one through our online directory.

Recognizing Risk Factors

Below are some questions to ask yourself to help determine your fall risk:

• Have you fallen in the last year?

• Are you taking any medications that make you feel drowsy, dizzy, confused,or lightheaded?

• Have you had foot or ankle surgery in the last year?

• Do you have impaired vision?

• Are you experiencing any issues with balance?

• Do you have any numbness, weakness, or altered sensation in your lower extremities?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are at an increased risk for a fall.

What the Podiatrist Can Do

Your podiatrist has several options to help you reduce the chances of taking a fall. First, he or she will start with a complete podiatric checkup. Depending on the condition of your feet and your particular risk factors, the foot doctor may recommend one or more of the following:

• Proper care and management of chronic foot problems to decrease pain and discomfort.

• Suggest modifications in footwear to increase comfort and reduce fall risk.

• Exercises to strengthen foot and ankle muscles and improve balance.

One recent study showed that increased podiatric care resulted in a reduction in falls of 36% over one year in patients who had an elevated fall risk. Don’t delay! For more information on falls and other foot-related health issues, contact us.