Memorial Health highlights balance training, physical therapy for Fall Prevention Month

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - With September marking Fall Prevention Month, health care specialists at Memorial Health are urging older adults to take proactive steps to reduce balance-related accidents.

According to hospital staff, fall-related injuries rank among the leading trauma cases treated in their emergency department each year.

On Tuesday, physical therapists walked community members through practical techniques to assess personal risk factors. Specialists demonstrated ways to check strength and balance, as well as safe methods for navigating stairs, curbs and uneven walking surfaces.

“As part of normal aging, your strength normally declines, as well as those other body systems that are super important when it comes to balance,” Cardi Powers, outpatient therapy manager at Memorial Health, said.

Therapists at Memorial Health note that patients recovering from a fall generally attend rehabilitation sessions two to three times a week for six to eight weeks. Recovery times can extend significantly if the incident involves a bone fracture or requires surgery.

Following structured therapy, patients receive customized home workout plans designed to preserve strength, maintain steady footing, and prevent repeat visits to the emergency room.