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Balance & Fall Prevention

Dr. Frank Verri D.C.

At Greater Pittsburgh Joint and Muscle Center, we understand the critical importance of maintaining balance and preventing falls, especially as we age. Our dedicated Balance & Fall Prevention program in Pittsburgh, PA, is designed to address the unique needs of those experiencing balance issues, with a comprehensive approach tailored to each individual.

Hospitalizations Due To Falls Statistics

Consider these alarming statistics:
Each year, falls lead to over 800,000 hospitalizations and incur costs exceeding $50 billion*. Tragically, every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in an emergency room for injuries related to a fall.

The CDC has issued a stark prediction, expecting 7 fall-related deaths every hour by 2023. This is not just a matter of public health but a personal safety concern. Did you know that 1 in 4 older adults falls each year, and out of these falls, 1 in 5 results in serious injury?

The urgency for prevention is further highlighted by a recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, revealing that individuals over 51 who cannot stand on one leg for 10 seconds face nearly double the risk of death from any cause within the next decade.

This is where we step in. At Greater Pittsburgh Joint & Muscle Center, our expert team is dedicated to reducing these risks through personalized assessments, tailored balance and fall prevention programs, and comprehensive education on fall prevention. Our aim is not just to treat but to prevent, ensuring that you or your loved ones can enjoy a safer, more active lifestyle free from the fear of falling.

Don't wait for a fall to change your life. Take control now and contact us at Greater Pittsburgh Joint & Muscle Center. Let's work together to keep you standing strong and confident, every step of the way.

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Hours of Operation

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9:00AM-1:00PM 3:00PM-7:00PM
Wednesday 2:00PM-11:40PM
Friday, Saturday, Sunday Closed

Recognizing Balance Problems

As we age, one of the key concerns for well-being is the ability to maintain balance. Balance problems are not just about the occasional stumble; they can indicate underlying health issues and significantly increase the risk of falls, which can have serious consequences.

Recognizing the early signs of balance issues is crucial for preventing falls and ensuring your safety and independence. Here's what you need to know:

Key Signs of Balance Problems

Frequent Stumbles or Falls

If you are experiencing more frequent trips, slips, or falls, this is a clear sign of balance issues. Even minor stumbles should be taken seriously.

Unsteady Walking

Pay attention to how you walk. Do you shuffle your feet, seem unsteady, or hold onto walls and furniture while moving around? These are indicators of balance difficulties.

Dizziness or Vertigo

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or a spinning sensation (vertigo) can suggest balance problems. These symptoms should not be ignored, as they can lead to falls.

Vision Problems

Vision plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. If you have declining vision or are having difficulty with their glasses or contacts, it can affect your balance.

Medication Side Effects

Many medications have side effects that can impact balance. Be aware of new medications or changes in dosages.

Causes of Balance Problems

Balance problems can stem from a variety of causes, including:

Muscle Weakness

Decreased muscle strength, especially in the legs, can affect stability.

Joint Problems

Arthritis and other joint issues can lead to balance difficulties.

Neurological Conditions

Conditions like Parkinson’s disease or stroke can significantly impact balance.

Ear Problems

Inner ear issues are a common cause of balance disorders and vertigo.

Medication Side Effects

As mentioned, some medications can affect balance.

How We Help Balance & Fall Prevention

1. Personalized Assessment

Our skilled chiropractors begin with a thorough assessment to identify factors contributing to balance difficulties. This includes evaluating joint mobility, muscle strength, flexibility, and gait patterns. We also review your health history and any medications that might impact your balance. This detailed assessment helps us create a customized treatment plan designed specifically for your needs.

2. Manual Adjustments

We recognize that spinal misalignments can influence nerve function and potentially contribute to balance problems. Although the evidence for this specific benefit in balance and fall prevention is limited, some of our chiropractors may use manual adjustments to restore proper spinal alignment. This approach aims to improve your overall spinal health and may have a positive effect on your balance.

3. Exercise and Physical Rehabilitation

An integral part of our service involves incorporating therapeutic exercises and physical rehabilitation programs. These are designed not only to strengthen core muscles but also to enhance balance and proprioception (the body's ability to sense its position and movement). Our targeted exercises are designed towards improving your stability and reducing the risk of falls.

4. Lifestyle and Education

Our commitment to your well-being extends beyond hands-on treatment. We offer guidance on lifestyle modifications that can help reduce the risk of falls. This includes tips on removing hazards in your home, choosing the right footwear, and maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, we provide valuable education about fall prevention strategies and resources, empowering you with the knowledge to stay safe and independent.

At Greater Pittsburgh Joint and Muscle Center, we are dedicated to helping you achieve better balance and a safer, more active lifestyle. Whether you're dealing with age-related balance issues or recovering from an injury, our Balance & Fall Prevention Service is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you stay steady and confident on your feet.

Feeling unsteady? Take control of your balance and prevent falls with Dr. Verri

Pittsburgh residents: Struggling with balance issues or fearing a fall? Dr. Verri, a top Pittsburgh chiropractor, can help you regain your confidence and move with ease. Through personalized assessments, gentle +adjustments (if needed), and targeted exercises, he creates a unique plan to address your specific needs. Whether it's improving core strength, enhancing flexibility, or optimizing nerve function, Dr. Verri empowers you to move safely and securely. Don't let balance concerns limit your life!

Schedule Fall Prevention Appointment

Fill out the form on this page to schedule an appointment today and experience the difference Dr. Verri's expertise can bring. Fall-proof your future, reclaim your active lifestyle!


References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Web–based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS) [online].
  2. Kakara R, Bergen G, Burns E, Stevens M. Nonfatal and Fatal Falls Among Adults Aged ≥65 Years—United States, 2020–2021. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:938–943. DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm7235a1.
  3. Moreland B, Kakara R, Henry A. Trends in Nonfatal Falls and Fall-Related Injuries Among Adults Aged ≥65 Years—United States, 2012–2018. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69:875–881. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6927a5
  4. Kakara RS, Lee R, Eckstrom EN. Cause-Specific Mortality Among Adults Aged ≥65 Years in the United States, 1999 Through 2020. Public Health Rep. 2023 Mar 11:333549231155869. DOI: 10.1177/00333549231155869. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 36905313.
  5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. National Vital Statistics System, Mortality 1999–2020 on CDC WONDER Online Database, released in 2021. Data are from the Multiple Cause of Death Files, 1999–2020, as compiled from data provided by the 57 vital statistics jurisdictions through the Vital Statistics Cooperative Program. Accessed February 9, 2023.
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. National Vital Statistics System, Mortality 2018–2021 on CDC WONDER Online Database, released in 2021. Data are from the Multiple Cause of Death Files, 2018–2021, as compiled from data provided by the 57 vital statistics jurisdictions through the Vital Statistics Cooperative Program. Accessed February 9, 2023.
  7. Florence CS, Bergen G, Atherly A, Burns ER, Stevens JA, Drake C. Medical Costs of Fatal and Nonfatal Falls in Older Adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 2018 March, DOI:10.1111/jgs.15304
  8. Haddad YK, Bergen G, Florence CS. Estimating the Economic Burden Related to Older Adult Falls by State. Journal of Public Health Management Practice. 2019;25(2):E17–E24. DOI:10.1097/PHH.000000000000816