From our PT, Dr. Ashley Raby
Fight the Fall Awareness Month: Why It Matters
Every September, healthcare providers, physical therapists, and community leaders come together for Fight the Fall Awareness Month. Falls are not just “part of getting older”—they are a leading cause of serious injury in adults over the age of 65. The good news? Falls can often be prevented with the right awareness, screening, and proactive care.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- 1 in 4 adults aged 65+ fall each year.
- Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults.
- More than 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments annually for fall-related injuries.
- Falls often lead to loss of independence, decreased quality of life, and significant healthcare costs.
These numbers highlight why raising awareness about fall prevention is essential—not only in September but year-round.
Why Falls Happen
Falls can occur for many reasons:
- Weakness in the legs or core
- Balance or vestibular (inner ear) issues
- Medication side effects
- Vision problems
- Home hazards such as poor lighting or loose rugs
Often, the cause is not just one factor, but a combination that increases risk over time. Identifying these risks early is the key to prevention as we often see first symptoms start to domino into worsening outcomes.
How FYZICAL Helps Prevent Falls
At FYZICAL, we specialize in balance and fall prevention using advanced technology and evidence-based care. Three of our most powerful tools include:
1. Bertec Balance System
The Bertec system allows us to accurately measure balance and vestibular function using state-of-the-art force plates and motion sensors. With Bertec testing, we can:
- Pinpoint weaknesses in balance control.
- Identify specific sensory system deficits (vision, vestibular, proprioception).
- Tailor an individualized treatment plan based on real data.
This goes far beyond simple “stand on one leg” tests and provides deep insights into why a patient may be at risk of falling.
2. Fall Risk Screenings
We also perform specialized fall risk screenings that assess:
- Strength and flexibility
- Gait and walking patterns
- Reaction time and coordination
- Vestibular system function
These screenings create a clear picture of a patient’s fall risk.
3. Safety Overhead System
At FYZICAL, patient safety is our top priority—which is why we utilize our Safety Overhead System (SOS). This harness-supported system allows patients to practice walking, balance activities, and advanced training without the fear of falling. By eliminating the risk of injury during therapy, the SOS provides a safe and supportive environment where patients can push their limits, gain confidence, and improve stability. It’s an empowering tool that helps individuals challenge their balance in ways that simply aren’t possible in traditional settings, accelerating recovery and reducing future fall risk.
Team-Based Care: Partnering With Medical Providers
Our screenings and Bertec testing allow us to work directly with physicians, specialists, and caregivers to create a plan of care that’s specific to each individual. This collaborative approach ensures that patients receive the right interventions at the right time, whether it’s balance therapy, strength training, vestibular rehabilitation, or home safety modifications.
Why Awareness Matters
Fight the Fall Awareness Month is about more than statistics. It’s about empowering individuals and families to:
- Recognize fall risks early.
- Take proactive steps to improve balance, strength, and safety.
- Reduce the stigma around asking for help or participating in fall prevention programs.
Falls don’t have to define aging. With the right care and support, older adults can stay active, independent, and safe for years to come.
Take Action This September
If you or a loved one has concerns about balance, dizziness, or fall risks, now is the time to schedule a fall risk screening. September is the perfect opportunity to fight the fall with knowledge, prevention, and specialized care.
At FYZICAL, our team is ready to help you take the first step toward a safer, healthier future. We offer three Indianapolis Metro locations in Fishers, Fort Ben / Lawrence, and Carmel.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your fall risk screening and learn how our Bertec technology, Safety Overhead System, and expert therapists can make a difference in your health in Central Indiana.