Tai Chi to Prevent Falls

Every 11 seconds an older adult (over the age of 65) is treated in the ER for a fall. Sadly, every 19 minutes someone in that same demographic dies according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

The country’s tenth annual Fall Prevention Awareness Day is this week on September 22, organized by the National Council on Aging.

While many falls are truly unavoidable, many more can actually be prevented.

By having strong bones, and healthy, flexible joints, your body will be better equipped to deal with the consequences of a serious fall. Typical injuries resulting from a fall include broken bones and fractures, sprains/strains, and concussions.

One way to help strengthen the body and improve balance (to help you from toppling over in the first place!) is tai chi.

Tai chi is an ancient form of Chinese martial arts that uses graceful movements to center both the mind and the body’s core.

A recent study in The Journal of the American Geriatric Society showed that tai chi reduced the rate of falls in participants who practiced it for less than a year by up to 43 percent.

Tai chi, and any exercise that involves gentle stretching and light movement, can also improve cardiovascular health and combat joint inflammation.

Personalized physical therapy can also to help you feel more sure and confident on your feet, while giving you the skills to bounce back quicker when faced with an injury. To make an appointment with one of our physical therapy specialists, please contact us here.

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(Adapted from The New York Times-Health)