How Can Physical Therapists Help Improve Balance for the Elderly Population?
Balance is an important part of health and well-being, especially as we age. According to the World Health Organization, falls are the second leading cause of accidental death in the elderly population.
Dr. Robert Stravinsky, a physical therapist at Professional Physical Therapy in Waltham, Massachusetts is dedicated to helping elderly patients improve their balance with specialized exercises and physical therapies.
Assessments to Identify Risk Factors
The first step in improving balance is to identify any risk factors that could be contributing to the patient’s imbalance. Dr. Stravinsky will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, medications, and lifestyle habits in order to identify potential risk factors that could be impacting their ability to maintain balance.
He will also assess any existing impairments or conditions that could be affecting their balance, including joint pain and stiffness, muscle weakness or tightness, or neurological dysfunction.
Specialized Exercises for Improved Balance
Once Dr. Stravinsky has identified any potential risk factors or impairments that could be contributing to the patient’s balance issues, he can develop a personalized treatment plan that includes specialized exercises and physical therapies designed specifically for their needs.
These exercises may include walking on uneven surfaces or standing on one leg to help improve proprioception (the ability of your body to sense its position). Strengthening exercises such as squats and lunges can help build strength and stability, which can help improve overall balance in elderly patients.
Balance training devices such as wobble boards can also be used to challenge balance while performing activities such as sweeping or stepping onto curbs.
Conclusion:
Dr. Robert Stravinsky believes that everyone should have access to quality care so they can live a happy life free from fear of injury due to falls or other injuries related to poor balance.
Through his specialized assessments and treatments tailored specifically for each individual patient’s needs, Dr. Stravinsky works hard every day so his patients can get back on their feet quickly and safely!