Are You At Risk for Falls?

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This month we recognize National Falls Prevention Month. It’s a surprising statistic, but as many as half of older adults will fall this year. Also surprising is that falls are the top cause of injury and the fifth leading cause of death for senior citizens. Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland knows there is a direct connection between the health of your feet and decreasing your risk of falling.

If your ankles or feet hurt or are not working properly, you’re probably altering the way you walk. It’s important to discuss your podiatric conditions with your podiatrist to assess your risk of falling.

Recognizing the Risk Factors for Falls

The following are some questions that will help determine your fall risk.

  • Are your medications making you feel dizzy, confused, lightheaded, or drowsy?

  • Have you fallen at any time during the past year?

  • Is your vision impaired?

  • Have you had surgery on your foot or ankle in the past year?

  • Are you experiencing numbness, weakness, or different sensations in your lower extremities?

  • Are you having balance issues?

If your response to any of these questions was yes, you may be at an elevated risk for falling.

What We Can Do

Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, Maryland has several options to help you reduce the chances of taking a fall.

First, we will perform a complete podiatric checkup. And after determining the overall condition of your feet and your individual risk factors, we may recommend proper care and management of ongoing foot issues to reduce discomfort and pain.

We may also suggest changing your footwear to improve the comfort of your feet and decrease your risk of falling. Exercises to strengthen ankle and foot muscles and improve balance may also be recommended.

Some studies revealed that proper, ongoing podiatric care resulted in a reduction in falls in patients who had an elevated risk. So, don’t delay. Contact us today at (410) 761-3501 to schedule an appointment.

Fall Prevention Month, Foot HealthThe Foot & Ankle Center Of Marylandfall prevention, senior foot care, proper footwear