The answer to this question is definitely yes. There are many medical conditions that can lead to an increase in your fall risk. 

Falling down isn’t something that’s unknown to most people. Many people may not think of falling down as a big deal because it happens so often. However, falls can lead to some serious injuries, especially as people get older. Even worse, older people who have fallen once are twice as likely to fall again. 

Physical therapists can help you determine which medical conditions can increase your fall risk. These medical professionals can help you find ways to improve your balance as well. 

Three medical conditions that can increase fall risk: 

1. Arthritis — Arthritis is a term that refers to hundreds of issues that cause joint inflammation. Issues like osteoarthritis can make moving your joints harder and more painful. They can also reduce your ability to move, which can lead to weaker, tighter muscles. These factors all mean that arthritis can make it much harder for people to maintain their stability. 

2. Medication dependence — There are millions of Americans who abuse prescription drugs. But dependence doesn’t necessarily mean someone is addicted to drugs. In the case of someone with depression, they may depend on antidepressants to get through the day. 

Antidepressants and other psychoactive medications can affect your balance and increase your chances of falls. People who are taking such drugs should pay close attention to how they feel while taking them. If you notice anything odd, get in touch with your doctor. 

3. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) — This condition affects the vestibular center in the inner ear. It occurs when calcium carbonate crystals break free of their normal position and start bouncing around the inner ear canals. The movement of these crystals sends false signals to the brain that can trigger dizziness and vertigo. These BPPV symptoms can then cause people to fall. 

Find help reducing your fall risk at Rehab Access

Are you keen to reduce your fall risk? Our team at Rehab Access Physical Therapy is primed to help you meet this important goal. We can start you off with a free screening that can identify balance problems you’re currently experiencing. Then, our team can construct a customized balance therapy plan for you that’s geared toward improving your balance. 

Contact our team today for more information about the balance issues we can help treat or to schedule your initial appointment.