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Although it is our profession to fix our patients up after an
injury from a fall, we are concerned about your health and want to
share with you some ways to avoid an injury.
Gravity being as universal as it is, some falls are unavoidable,
however, there are ways to reduce the risk. Studies have shown that
something as simple as reminding yourself first thing in the morning
to be careful will reduce the risk! This can be reinforced by family
members reminding each other and family members can also point out
behavior that is a bit risky.
You can divide falls into two categories - one caused by external
factors and one caused by internal factors. External factors putting
you at risk include slippery floors, loose or curled up throw rugs,
obstructive furniture, poorly lit areas (or not turning on a light
at night), and in a surprising number of cases - pets! These are
factors within the home. Outside of the home, changes in elevation
(steps or recessed areas in restaurants for example), uneven footing
on gravel or sidewalks, and parking lot bumpers will account for
some falls. Within the house, it is a good idea to go through and
look for obstacles and remove or change them. When outside of your
home, be especially careful of your surroundings.
Internal factors are caused by things that you do yourself. As we
get older, our balance changes and things as simple as sitting down
to put on trousers or a skirt rather than standing is safer. Leaving
a nightlight on is good if you get up at night. If you do get up,
sit on the bed for a minute to let your blood pressure stabilize as
this improves balance. If you are lying down, by all means, do not
jump up to answer the doorbell or the phone. Get up slowly even if
you miss the call. You are all aware of other precautions such as
not standing on chairs to change a light bulb, use a ladder. As your
balance changes a bit, have someone help steady you if you must
climb on something. Regular exercise, as simple as walking, also
helps to keep coordination and muscle balance in better condition.
All things being equal, harder bones do not break as easily as
soft bones if you do fall. If you have reached the age of 65 for
women and 75 for men and have not had a bone density test, you
should speak to us or your primary care physician about one. We do
these tests in our office.
Lastly, if you should have an injury, call us. There is always
someone from our practice available regardless of which doctor might
be listed on call in the local emergency room.
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