PODIATRIC CARE CAN REDUCE FALLS

Fall injuries create a heavy financial burden, accounting for $2 billion in annual hospitalization charges and $624 million in annual outpatient emergency department charges. Reducing falls could come down to podiatric care. “Podiatrists are uniquely positioned to help reduce the risk of falls by treating the foot, providing patient education, promoting health, and encouraging mobility,” said Lockwood-based podiatrist and NYSPMA President James Hanna, DPM. “While muscle weakness, arthritis, and a decline in foot strength and flexibility are all a main cause, falls are a predictable and preventable problem. Simple interventions, including podiatric care, could help to reduce those falls and hospitalizations.”

 

Dr. James Hanna

 

In fact, a 2017 study by the NYSPMA fall prevention, showed a 36 percent reduction of falls over a 12-month period for individuals with an increased risk of falls who received podiatric interventions. Additionally, the study showed that a routine assessment and management of foot issues reduces the risk of falls, leading to improved health and decreased frailty among the aging.

 

Source: Kerri Ehrmantraut, Patch [10/29/20]

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News