Understanding falls risk
Falls are the number one cause of accidental injury in older Australians, but there is a lot that can be done to lower the risk. Falls usually result from a combination of factors — reduced strength, poor balance, changes in walking pattern, and hazards in the home.
Physiotherapy is uniquely placed to address all of these at once, which is why it is one of the most effective falls-prevention strategies available.
How physiotherapy reduces the risk
A physiotherapist first assesses your individual risk factors, then builds a program that targets them directly.
- Progressive strength training for stronger, steadier legs
- Balance and stability exercises
- Gait and walking retraining
- A review of hazards in your home
- Rebuilding confidence and reducing fear of falling
- Advice on footwear and walking aids where helpful
The confidence factor
The fear of falling can be as limiting as a fall itself, causing people to move less — which weakens muscles and actually increases falls risk. Physiotherapy breaks this cycle through graded, supported practice that rebuilds confidence.
Delivered at home, falls-prevention physiotherapy is especially powerful because hazards can be identified and addressed on the spot, and training happens where you actually move.