At LOTS, we’re celebrating National Physical Therapy Month by highlighting the many ways PT can make a positive impact on your life. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or looking to improve your mobility and strength, physical therapy offers a personalized approach to help you feel and function at your best.
Physical therapy isn’t just for athletes; it’s for anyone seeking better movement and well-being. At LOTS, our skilled therapists work with all ages, creating individualized plans to meet each patient’s unique goals. PT can support those recovering from surgery, managing arthritis, preventing falls, or even addressing headaches and TMJ pain.
This month, we’re placing special focus on one of physical therapy’s essential roles: fall prevention. Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, with over 25% of people over 65 experiencing a fall each year. A broken hip is one of the most common and serious fall-related injuries in older adults, with a mortality rate of nearly 33% in those over 50 who sustain this injury.
While these statistics are eye-opening, there are simple steps you can take to lower your risk. Here are four easy, proactive measures you can start today:
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Speak Up – Talk to your healthcare provider if you feel at risk of falls, and ask them to review your medications.
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Keep Moving – Start a balanced exercise routine focused on strengthening your lower body and improving balance.
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Get an Annual Eye Exam – Vision changes can contribute to falls, so regular eye exams are essential.
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Make Your Home Safer – Use night lights, remove clutter, and address tripping hazards to prevent falls at home.
Are you at risk for falls?
Take our quick fall risk test below and discover how we can help you take steps toward safer, more confident movement:
Check Your Risk for Falling Circle Yes or No for each statement below:
I have fallen in the past year. Yes (2) No (0)
I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker to get around safely. Yes (2) No (0)
Sometimes, I feel unsteady when I am walking. Yes (1) No (0)
I steady myself by holding onto furniture when walking at home. Yes (1) No (0)
I am worried about falling. Yes (1) No (0)
I need to push with my hands to stand up from a chair. Yes (1) No (0)
I have some trouble stepping up onto a curb. Yes (1) No (0)
I often have to rush to the toilet. Yes (1) No (0)
I have lost some feeling in my feet Yes (1) No (0)
I take medicine that sometimes makes me feel light-headed or more tired than usual. Yes (1) No (0)
I take medicine to help me sleep or improve my mood. Yes (1) No (0)
I often feel sad or depressed. Yes (1) No (0)
Add up the number of points for each “yes” answer. If you scored 4 points or more, you may be at risk for falling–we would love to discuss these test results with you if you believe you are at risk for falling.
We invite you to explore how LOTS can empower you and your loved ones to lead healthier, more active lives. Come see why so many patients trust our team to guide them on their journey to recovery and wellness!
LOTS
Legacy Outpatient Therapy Services
1817 Northpointe Lane
Ruston, LA 71270
318-255-9601
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