Severe Foot Pain Linked to Recurrent Falls

A recent study conducted by the Hebrew Senior Life’s Institute for Aging Research and published in the journal Gerontology, maintains that foot pain – predominantly severe foot pain –is linked to a higher incidence of recurrent falls. Researchers also found that this also covers patients diagnosed with planus foot posture (flat feet), and indicates that both foot pain and foot posture play a major role in falls among older adults.

Using information collected from the Framingham Foot study, scientists found that foot posture and foot pain were not associated with any one fall. However, in the case of multiple falls, foot posture and pain were usually a factor.

A Serious Issue for Older Adults

The study is critical for older adults, as falls are one of the leading causes of injury for them. Additionally, a fall can lead to hospitalization, a decrease in quality of life, a loss of independence, and even fatality.

More than 30 percent of people over the age of 65 fall at least once a year. This figure can increase by over 40 percent for people who are 75 years or older.

What to Do as an Older Adult After a Fall

Whether you are home or at the store, an unexpected fall can be scary and upsetting. If you do fall, it is important to stay as calm as possible.

Right after a fall, try to relax and remain on the ground for a few moments. This will help you recover from the initial shock of falling. If you are hurt, do not get up; It could only make the injury worse.

If you think you can stand safely without any help, roll over onto your side. Rest again and allow your body and blood pressure to adjust. Slowly rise to your hands and knees and crawl to a sturdy chair. Put your hands on the seat of the chair and slide one of your feet forward so that it is flat on the floor. Keep your other leg bent so your knee is on the ground. From this kneeling position, slowly rise and turn your body to sit in the chair.

Be sure to discuss your fall with your doctor. Write down when, where, and how the fall happened so that you can discuss the fall in detail with your primary care physician. Your doctor can then assess whether a medical issue or other cause of your fall needs to be addressed.

Camden Slip and Fall Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Advocate for Slip and Fall Victims

Camden slip and fall lawyers at DiTomaso Law are on your side if you suffer from a slip and fall accident. Contact a Camden slip and fall lawyer today by calling 856-414-0010 or completing our online contact form. We have offices conveniently located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and proudly serve clients in South Jersey and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.