Treating pain and injuries after a fall

Oct 14, 2024

Falling is a major concern for many older adults. A fall can result in joint injuries, fractures, neck and back pain, dizziness and concussions. A serious tumble can affect the rest of your life.

Graphic of businessman slipping on a banana and falling on his back — Building strength and improving balance can prevent falls from having a lasting impact on your quality of life.

Physical therapy is recommended after a fall if you have injuries, pain, trouble with normal activities or you’re afraid of falling again.

“People have a large capacity at any age to build strength and improve balance,” said Erika Schmidt, a Marshfield Clinic physical therapist. “If you feel like you’re not able to do the things you want to after a fall, consider a physical therapy evaluation.”

Physical therapy treats injuries and restores function after falling on your back

The goals of physical therapy after a fall are unique to each patient. Generally, they include treating the injury, managing pain and improving balance and strength so the patient can return to normal activity. Each patient will receive a recovery program tailored to his or her needs.

It’s not unusual to fear falling again while climbing stairs, getting in and out of the bathtub or shower or getting jostled in crowded spaces.

“Practicing those activities in a controlled environment and working on your balance reactions can help you feel more confident,” Schmidt said.

Physical therapists use functional walking and balance tests to assess your risk of falling again. People who are at high risk may need a cane or walker. You may need to consider different living arrangements if you’re still unsafe at home with an assistive device.

Continue preventing falls at home

Fall prevention doesn’t end when physical therapy does. It is an ongoing process of improving strength and balance and keeping your home safe.

“Most patients get a home exercise program specifically for them,” Schmidt said. “They can continue to build balance and strength and address their deficits if they follow the program.”

Attend fitness classes for older adults or classes that teach balance and fall prevention skills. These are offered at local fitness centers, senior centers or Aging and Disability Resource Centers.

Get an eye exam and update your eyeglass prescription to avoid falls due to poor vision. Wear flat sturdy shoes that tie rather than shoes that can slide off your feet.

Make changes to your home environment like removing loose rugs and installing railings, shower grab bars and better lighting to reduce fall risk.

For immediate care, visit Marshfield Clinic Health System.

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4 responses to “Treating pain and injuries after a fall”

Scott Steltenpohl

Oct 17, 2024

I encourage everyone to wear a helmet while biking. Just last week, I lost control making a U-turn on a bike trail and hit my head. I sustained cuts near my eye, causing heavy bleeding and bruising, but thankfully I didn’t lose consciousness. Despite wearing a helmet, I was diagnosed with a concussion at urgent care. I can’t imagine how much worse it could have been without one.

Reply
Maureen Sulkin

Jun 26, 2020

I had very bad fall after being shielded went out first time in over 3 months fell tripped on something in Road cut bruised all over including face the bruises are still dark and 3 weeks ago still face looks horrendous will the bruises start to go ? I’m on warfarin

Reply
1. Jacob Zipperer
  
  Jun 29, 2020
  
  Hi Maureen,
  
  We recommend reaching out to your provider directly with your question. He or she is most aware of your medical history and can best advise you.
  If you are a Marshfield Clinic patient, you can message your provider through My Marshfield Clinic at the following link: https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/mymarshfieldclinic
  
  Thanks,
  Jake
  
  Reply
Jay Halminiak

Oct 21, 2017

Great job, Erika!

Reply