Hello Neurologists, We're Physical Therapists

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) released Guidelines to assist in assessing risk of falling.  The guidelines appear adequate and grounded in evidence.  A nice little Clinical Summary to boot.

Could we put some common sense into the guidelines?  If it is determined that a patient is at risk of falling, does it appear that any clear, evidence-based plan was suggested?  Without a clear-cut plan, will the risk of falling increase?  (Increased awareness of falling, potentially increased fear, decreased level of confidence in performing some activities, lack of a plan)  Does it appear that the game plan for resolving the complaint is vague? 

Hello, Neurologists, we Physical Therapists are pleased to meet you and happy to assist you with our knowledge and expertise in the matter of providing interventions to increase lower extremity strength and challenge balance deficits for patients at risk of falling!  We are the exercise and movement experts.

The Minnesota Chapter has been diligently working with various organizations and professionals within the state of Minnesota to reduce falls.  Their website does not do justice to the program implemented, but you can find information on it at Stand Up, Be Strong  A very quick assessment brochure with a simple, clear, action-oriented plan.  This is a fairly new program initiated in the state of Minnesota. Since data collection is only beginning, we'll have to wait and see if this program will reduce the fall rate in Minnesota.

The Geriatrics Section of the APTA has a Balance and Falls Special Interest Group.  Balance and Falls SIG