Avoiding Falls
Falls are the leading cause of injury leading to death among older adult1. Fall-related hip fractures account for approximately 25% of injuries leading to death among those over age 65, and 34% among those 85 or older2. Fall related injuries occur more commonly than strokes and are the most preventable cause of nursing home placement3.
Clinical Indications
- Ankle instability
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Ankle osteoarthritis
- Mild foot drop
- Vestibular disease
- History of fall or near fall
- Walking difficulty
Resources
Information
Clinical Studies
- New Study Underscores and Broadens Proven Effectiveness of Arizona Balance Brace (ABB) in Improving Balance and Reducing Risk of Senior Falls
- An immediate effect of custom-made ankle foot orthoses on postural stability in older adults
Forms
1. Stevens JA, Corso PS, Finkelstein EA, Miller TR. The costs of fatal and nonfatal falls among older adults. Injury Prevention 2006b;12:290–5.
2. Peek-Asa C, Zwerling C. Role of environmental interventions in injury control and prevention. Epidemiol Rev. 25:77-89, 2003.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Incidence and costs to Medicare of fractures among Medicare beneficiaries aged > 65 years—United States, July 1991–June 1992.