Real Cause of Seniors Falling
Ask them and most seniors will tell you that the fear of injury due to falling is high on their list. With frail bones and uneasy steps, the potential to fall and break a hip, arm, etc. could put a elderly person in the hospital or even worse.
Most believe that a slippery surface or tripping over an unseen hazard is the cause. But a study that actually videotaped seniors discovered that the most common cause is “incorrect weight shifting” (41% of falls recorded). A contributor to incorrect weight shifting is a lack of proprioception. Proprioception is the position-movement sensation that allows us minds to understand exactly when our bodies are as we move. It is the ability to lift your leg just enough as you walk or step to keep from hitting the ground prematurely and take a complete step.
Chiropractic care can improve proprioception and improve joint movement that can help reduce problems in weight shifting. If you or a loved one has trouble walking or doing other movements that require weight shifting, they should seriously consider seeing their doctor of chiropractic to see if the problem is joint-related.