Falls and slips can be incredibly dangerous and lead to lasting injuries, yet you can prevent them. Preventing falls is crucial for maintaining mobility and quality of life, especially among older adults. We will always advocate for using physical therapy not just for rehabilitation but as a vital preventive measure. Physical therapy combats the underlying causes of falls, such as muscle weakness, balance disorders, and more, through a comprehensive approach focusing on strength, balance, and environmental changes. UNDERSTAND THE CAUSES OF FALLS. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed that more than one-third of those 65 and older fall each year in the U.S., and 20%–30% of these people will experience moderate to severe injuries as a result. Falls can result from different factors intricately linked to your physical condition and environment. Balance disorders, often worsened by medications or conditions like vertigo, can significantly increase your fall risk. Environmental factors, including poor lighting, loose rugs, or cluttered walkways, also play a STAND STRONG AGAINST FALLS How Physical Therapy Can Safeguard Your Steps
significant role. Recognizing these causes is the first step toward effective prevention. HOW PHYSICAL THERAPY CAN HELP. Physical therapy addresses these risk factors through a variety of tailored treatments and solutions, including: • Strength and Balance Training: Tailored exercises strengthen lower body muscles and improve balance, providing a sturdy foundation for safe movement. • Gait and Coordination Training: Therapists work to correct gait abnormalities and enhance coordination, ensuring efficient and stable walking patterns. • Environmental Modification Advice: Physical
therapists recommend changes to minimize hazards in living spaces, such as improving lighting or installing grab bars.
• Education and Awareness: Teaching you about fall risks and prevention strategies empowers you to make safer lifestyle choices, whether using assistive devices or avoiding risky activities. Physical therapy offers a multifaceted approach to fall prevention by tackling both physical and environmental factors. When you understand the causes of falls and engage in targeted physical therapy interventions, you can significantly lower your risk, ensuring greater independence and improved well-being. If you’re concerned about falls, call (847) 515-8970 to schedule a free screening and consultation.
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INGREDIENTS • 1 1/2 lb flank steak • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk Grilled Red Curry Beef Satay With Peanut Sauce • 2 tbsp lime juice • 1–3 tbsp Thai red curry paste • 1 tbsp fish sauce For sauce: • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk • 1–2 tbsp Thai red curry paste • 1 tbsp brown sugar
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DIRECTIONS 1. Freeze flank steak for 30 minutes. Cut crosswise, against the grain, into thin slices. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, curry paste, and fish sauce. Add steak and toss to coat. Cover and chill for 8 hours. 3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, curry paste, brown sugar, and fish sauce. Bring to a gentle boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add peanut butter and stir until well blended. Remove from heat and add lime juice. 4. Thread the marinated meat onto 12 long skewers. Grill until beef is medium rare, 1–2 minutes per side. 5. Transfer satay to a platter and serve with peanut sauce.
• 1 tbsp fish sauce • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter • 1 tbsp lime juice
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