Picking Yourself Up: How Physiotherapy Can Help After a Fall
We’ve all been there. Maybe you tripped on an uneven sidewalk, slipped on ice, or lost your balance on the stairs. Falls happen, and unfortunately, they often lead to injuries. This is How physiotherapy can help.
The Public Health Agency of Canada says that falls cause over half of injuries in seniors. Each year, 20-30% of people over 65 experience a fall. The impact extends beyond physical pain. Falls often lead to prolonged hospital stays, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life.
But don’t worry; physiotherapy can help you get back on your feet!
Let’s look at some common fall injuries and how physiotherapy can help with your recovery:
1. Sprains and Strains:
Sprains and strains are the most frequent injuries from falls. You might sprain your ankle, wrist, or even your back.
Physiotherapists are experts at assessing these injuries and creating a personalized treatment plan. They use different methods to reduce pain and swelling. These methods also help improve your movement and strengthen the injured area. Think of them as your personal guide to regaining your strength and flexibility.
2. Fractures:
A broken bone is a big deal. After a medical professional treats your fracture, physiotherapy plays a key role in your recovery. Your physiotherapist will design exercises to help you regain movement, strength and function in the affected area. They will also work with you to prevent stiffness and get you moving correctly as you heal.
3. Head Injuries:
Falls can sometimes lead to concussions or other head injuries. Certified physiotherapists with training in this area can assess and manage these conditions. They use special exercises and techniques to help with dizziness, balance issues, and headaches. This helps you return to normal activities safely.
What to Expect from a Physiotherapy Appointment?
Your first physiotherapy session will involve an assessment of your injury and general health. The physiotherapist will then create a treatment plan for you. This may include:
- Exercises to improve your balance, strength and flexibility.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Education: Your physiotherapist will teach you about your injury, how to manage it and how to prevent future falls.
Benefits Beyond Physical Recovery
Physiotherapy does more than just address the physical effects of a fall. It also:
- Reduces pain: Physiotherapists have various techniques to manage pain so you can focus on healing.
- Improves confidence: Regaining your physical abilities and independence after a fall can give you a confidence boost.
- Prevents future falls: By improving your strength, balance and coordination, physiotherapy reduces your risk of falling again.
If you’ve fallen, don’t wait to get help from a physiotherapist. At Newmarket Wellness Center, we have the skills to help you recover. We will support you in regaining your mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Note: Always consult with a health professional for individual advice. This blog post is general information and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
For more information on falls and physiotherapy:
- College of Physiotherapists of Ontario: https://portal.collegept.org/en-US/public-register/
- Public Health Agency of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health.html