Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the room were spinning around you can signal a balance problem. Balance can become less reliable with age, but dizziness is not a normal change that should be ignored. Inner-ear disorders, medical conditions, and certain medications can affect steadiness. Foot pain, numbness, and muscle weakness can also make it harder to sense the ground or respond to a misstep. These problems can increase the risk of falling and reduce a person’s confidence in everyday activities.
A podiatrist can examine the feet and ankles for problems that affect stability. The evaluation includes checking joint movement, muscle strength, and sensation. The podiatrist can also study how the patient stands and moves when walking. Painful arthritis, fallen arches, or an earlier ankle injury can change the way weight passes through the feet. Nerve damage can reduce awareness of pressure and position. Thick toenails, corns, or calluses can also make each step painful and less secure. Identifying these concerns helps the podiatrist recommend care that addresses the patient’s specific fall risks.
Treatment can focus on improving comfort, support, and control. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics to improve foot position or redistribute pressure. Wearing shoes with low heels, nonslip soles, and a secure fit can help patients maintain contact with the ground. A brace may improve stability when ankle weakness is present. The podiatrist can also treat painful skin and nail problems that interfere with a steady step. Patients should report recent falls and changes in sensation, even when no injury is visible. Regular foot examinations can identify new concerns before they further limit safe movement. If you have fallen and injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.
Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.
How to Prevent Falls
Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:
- Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
- Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
- Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
- Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
- Utilizing a walker or cane
- Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
- Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness
Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
