Fall Risk Assessment

Get back on your feet with a personalized physical therapy plan designed to improve balance, strength, confidence, and mobility.

Are You at Risk of a Fall-Related Injury?

If unsteadiness, dizziness, or a past fall has you worried about falling again, Cutting Edge Physical Therapy can help identify the factors involved and treat them accordingly.

Falls are a serious concern, especially as we age. Cutting Edge Physical Therapy notes that one-third of the population over age 65 falls each year, and most people do not think about keeping their balance in shape until after a harsh fall.

The good news is that many falls can be prevented through regular exercise of the balance system. If you have recently sustained a balance-related injury, seeking help from a physical therapist promptly can help you avoid additional injuries in the future.

Our physical therapists work to find the root of your problem through an individualized evaluation, then create a treatment plan to help you move with greater safety and confidence.

Symptoms That Deserve Attention

Contact a physical therapist if you experience any of the following:

  • Dizziness or vertigo, including spinning sensations while still
  • Inability to focus or remain alert
  • Double vision or tunnel vision
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Arm or leg weakness
  • Abnormal eye movements
  • Difficulty standing from a seated position or standing for prolonged periods

Common Fall-Risk Factors

Some people have a higher risk of falling than others. Factors our therapists consider include:

  • Advanced age, sedentary lifestyle, or previous falls
  • Vertigo or dizziness
  • Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease
  • Heart disease, diabetes, previous stroke, or heart attack
  • Arthritis or other joint pain
  • Vision problems
  • Walking or balance problems
  • Fatigue or overall poor health

What Happens During a Fall Risk Assessment?

Your physical therapist begins by reviewing your medical and fall history to determine the risk factors that may be contributing to instability. You will learn what those factors mean and the steps you can take to decrease your risk.

Your initial evaluation may include vision and thinking tests, resting and active heart-rate checks, and an assessment of gait, balance, range of motion, and strength. We may also examine your mobility, muscle weakness, perceived functional ability and fear of falling, visual impairment or corrective eyewear, home hazards, cardiovascular health, and medications.

The results give your therapist the information needed to design a treatment plan around your specific needs—not a one-size-fits-all program.

How Physical Therapy Helps Reduce Fall Risk

Exercise interventions are an effective treatment method for people at increased risk of falling. Cutting Edge Physical Therapy uses the findings from your assessment to address the issues that matter most for your movement, comfort, and safety. Your program may improve balance, strength, flexibility, endurance, and overall movement.

Pain Management & Movement

Pain is addressed early so treatment can be as comfortable as possible. Walking and moving programs help restore normal function through activities that may include walking in a circle or completing an obstacle course.

Balance & Strength Training

Your therapist designs balance activities for your needs, such as standing on one leg or maintaining balance during a mentally stimulating task. Strength work targets muscle groups that support standing and walking balance and help you recover from a loss of balance.

Endurance Training

An aerobic exercise program can be progressed gradually as endurance improves. For example, treatment may begin with 10-minute sessions and build toward 30-minute sessions to help you safely tolerate more activity.

Take the Next Step Toward Steadier Movement

Whether you have fallen before, feel unsteady when walking, or are concerned about dizziness and balance, our Murray clinic is ready to help. We provide individualized evaluations, private treatment rooms, and high-quality hands-on care.

Explore care for related balance concerns or request an appointment to begin your personalized plan.