Fall Prevention / ActiveSTL - St. Louis Sports Chiropractor

If you are looking for effective pain relief, contact us at 314-553-9785 or schedule online at scheduler.chir...
Dr. Brennan Donahue is a Chiropractic Physician with ActiveSTL in St. Louis, Missouri. At ActiveSTL we believe that everyone should have a pain-free, active lifestyle.
ActiveSTL is located in St.Louis, MO. We specialize in evidence-based, conservative care for weekend warriors, dedicated athletes, and desk workers.
Our website: activestl.com/
Facebook: / activestl
Instagram: / active.stl
When addressing the critical topic of fall risks and prevention, a comprehensive approach that focuses on the feet and ankles is paramount. Coordination, balance, function, strength, and proprioception are all essential elements to consider, as they significantly influence our susceptibility to falls. Shockingly, statistics reveal that 40% of individuals over 70 years old suffer from falls, with 1 in 5 resulting in injury, often severe, such as hip fractures.
Toe strength and coordination emerge as significant predictors of falls in recent studies, alongside muscle strength and bone density. However, it's vital to acknowledge that the causes of falls are multifaceted, encompassing various factors beyond foot strength alone. Medications, visual impairments, inner ear disorders, neurological and cardiovascular conditions, as well as everyday household hazards like wet floors or clutter, all contribute to fall risk.
Nevertheless, within our professional setting, we possess the tools to address and mitigate these risks. Through targeted exercises and interventions, we can enhance strength, coordination, and balance, thereby reducing the likelihood of falls. Key assessments such as the sit-to-stand test, lateral step-ups, and evaluations of hip and core strength provide invaluable insights into an individual's fall risk profile.
By implementing tailored exercise regimens and progressively challenging our patients, we empower them to bolster their physical capabilities and minimize their vulnerability to falls. While acknowledging that falls may still occur due to various factors, including unforeseen circumstances, our proactive approach emphasizes the significance of strengthening foot muscles as a proactive measure against future incidents.
In summary, while not all falls stem solely from weak feet, enhancing foot strength can significantly contribute to fall prevention efforts. Through targeted exercises and diligent monitoring, we strive to equip individuals with the tools and resilience needed to navigate life confidently and safely, reducing the burden of fall-related injuries and enhancing overall quality of life.