Falls are a major concern among seniors. In fact, 1 in 4 seniors falls each year. However, many balance and fall prevention exercises fail to address one really important component of balance.
Watch the video to learn an often overlooked trick to improve balance and fall prevention in seniors.
The Overlooked Secret To Balance and Fall Prevention
Many physical therapy and exercise programs aim to enhance balance and prevent falls in seniors.
However, most of the time when you go to those programs, you're wearing shoes. Therefore, your feet are "out of sight, out of mind."
But your feet play a really important role in your balance.
You use your feet for for sensory feedback to feel the ground beneath you.
However, you also use your toes to enhance your base of support, grip the ground, and adapt to uneven surfaces.
Therefore, it's important to improve your foot stability and toe strength in order to improve balance and prevent falls.
The Balancing Act Revealed
Doing single-leg stands or tandem stands is great, but if you still find yourself struggling with balance, your foot muscles might be the missing link.
Use the steps below to strengthen your foot muscles for better balance and fall prevention.
- Toes Curling Technique: Start by consciously curling your toes, creating a solid grip with the ground, and forming an arch in the bottom of your foot.
- Building the Base: Align your knee over your toe, your hip over your knee, and activate those glute muscles for a systematic approach to a strong base.
- Transition to Lift: Gradually lift weight off the opposite leg while maintaining stability. The key is a smooth, controlled transition.
Embracing The Balance Challenge
This exercise may seem challenging initially.
However, with consistent practice a few times a week, you'll notice remarkable improvements in balance and stability.
Further more, you'll reduce your risk of falling on uneven surfaces.
Need More Help To Improve Balance and Prevent Falls?
If you live in the St. Louis area and need help to improve your balance and prevent falls, we'd be happy to help you.
Just tap the button below to request an appointment with one of our specialist physical therapists.
Here are some other posts about how to improve poor balance with age that you may enjoy:
How To Fix Poor Balance With Age
Spinal Stenosis and Balance Problems
3 Best Balance Exercises For Seniors To Improve Balance At Home
3 Strengthening Exercises For Ankle Stability and Balance