What Causes Falls?
Several factors contribute to an increased risk of falling, and these can be grouped into two main categories: intrinsic (related to personal health) and extrinsic (related to the environment).
Intrinsic Risk Factors (Balance, Vision, Foot Pain)
- Balance Problems: Issues with balance can arise from various conditions, such as muscle weakness, vertigo, or neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease. Poor balance increases the likelihood of falling, especially during daily activities like walking or climbing stairs.
- Muscle Weakness: As we age, muscle strength naturally decreases, particularly in the legs and core. Weak muscles make it more difficult to stabilize your body, increasing the risk of falls.
- Foot Pain or Foot Disorders: Foot problems like bunions, hammertoes, or plantar fasciitis can cause discomfort and affect your gait, leading to an unstable walking pattern. Additionally, wearing improper footwear that lacks support can worsen these issues.
- Vision Problems: Poor eyesight or certain vision conditions, such as cataracts or glaucoma, make it harder to see obstacles in your path. Blurred vision, reduced depth perception, and poor contrast sensitivity all contribute to falls.
- Medications: Certain medications, particularly those that affect the central nervous system (like sedatives or blood pressure medications), can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or fainting. This increases the likelihood of losing balance and falling.
Extrinsic Risk Factors (Home Hazards, Footwear)
- Safe Home Environments: Clutter, uneven floors, loose rugs, and poor lighting in the home can create hazardous conditions that increase the risk of tripping and falling.
- Slippery Surfaces: Wet or polished floors, icy sidewalks, and outdoor steps without handrails pose a significant risk, especially for individuals with balance or mobility issues.
- Footwear: Shoes that are too loose, have high heels, or lack proper grip and support can make walking dangerous. Flip-flops, for instance, can cause slips, while overly tight shoes can impair balance. Shoes that are too old and worn out should be replaced with a wide base of support.
When to Seek Help for Fall Risk
Knowing when to seek professional help is key to preventing falls before they happen. Here are some signs that indicate you or a loved one should see a healthcare professional:
Frequent Stumbles
If you find yourself tripping over things more often than usual, it could indicate an underlying issue with balance or mobility. Don’t wait until a major fall occurs – talk to a doctor or podiatrist if you’re noticing an increase in minor accidents.
Dizziness or Weakness
- Weakness in Legs or Feet: If you’re finding it difficult to stand up from a seated position or notice that your legs feel weak or wobbly, it could indicate that your muscles aren’t providing the stability needed to prevent falls.
- Dizziness or Light headedness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing up quickly, can be a red flag. This can be related to medication, dehydration, or underlying health conditions that require attention.
Balance and Gait Issues
If you frequently feel unsteady, especially when walking on uneven surfaces or turning quickly, it may be time to consult a professional for a balance assessment.
How to Prevent Falls
While some risk factors are unavoidable, there are many steps you can take to reduce your likelihood of falling.
Here are some strategies to stay safe and improve your mobility:
Muscle Strength and Exercise
Regular exercise, particularly activities that focus on strength and balance, can significantly reduce fall risk.
We recommend seeing a good physiotherapist, the local physio group Blackwood Physiotherapy is excellent and Wyld Physiotherapy is also very experienced.
Safe Footwear and Home Adjustments
Choose shoes that provide good arch support, cushioning, and a non-slip sole. Avoid high heels, backless shoes, or footwear with minimal structure. Seeing us at Leading Edge Podiatry, we can provide guidance finding the right shoes and assessing the current pair you have.
Remove clutter, secure rugs, install grab bars in bathrooms, and ensure that your home is well-lit, especially in hallways and staircases. Consider adding non-slip mats in areas prone to getting wet, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Assistive Devices
If you’re having trouble with balance or walking, consider using a cane, walker, or other mobility aid. These devices can help prevent falls by providing additional support.
Fall Prevention in Blackwood: Local Recommendations
The Blackwood Recreation Centre offers “No Falls Program” we strongly recommend this for elderly patients who have either experienced a fall or feel unstable and would like tips and tricks to prevent falls and how to recover from them. The Blackwood Recreation Centre website can be found here – Home – Blackwood Recreation Centre
When to See a Podiatrist
If you’re experiencing foot pain, discomfort, or have noticed changes in how you walk, it’s essential to see a podiatrist. At Leading Edge Podiatry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot conditions that can increase your risk of falling. From custom orthotics to physical therapy recommendations, we’re here to help you stay safe, mobile, and confident on your feet.
Falls are preventable, and by taking proactive steps, you can reduce your risk and maintain your independence. If you or a loved one are concerned about fall risks, don’t wait until an injury occurs – seek professional guidance to address the issue early.
Take the First Step to Fall Prevention
For more information or to schedule a fall risk assessment, contact Leading Edge Podiatry today. We’re here to support your foot health and keep you steady on your feet!
Concerned about fall risk? Book a fall risk assessment with Leading Edge Podiatry in Blackwood today.
📞 Call us at 08 7120 6063 or Book Online.