I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up

Having practiced as a homecare physical therapist with direct patient care for over 17 years, one of the most common reasons I would see clients is due to falls.  A number of factors contribute to falls: health status, medications, pets in the home, and the layout of the home amongst several other factors predispose people to a higher risk of falls.

One thing I coached my clients on in the past is what to do when a fall occurs.  Early on in my career, I focused on just the mechanics of getting back up after falling, and while that is a critical component, there is another that is just as critical.  When we fall or do something that we tend to feel embarrassed by, we have a tendency to express a “knee-jerk” reaction.  That is to say, once we realize we have fallen, are on the ground, have colorfully expressed ourselves through a unique mastery of the English language, and realize we are not injured, we attempt to get up as quickly as possible.  This practice served us adequately when we were younger.  However, as an older adult this expends a lot of energy, generally utilizes poor body mechanics, and can result in subsequent falls in our attempts to get off the floor leading us to become increasingly fatigued and unable to get up at all.

As a result, I coached clients on the process outlined below:

1. Remain calm

2. Self-assessment – Am I injured? Bleeding? Potential broken bones?

3. Create a plan for getting up – Evaluate your surroundings and resources available to you

4. Conserve energy – Find the path of least resistance that gives you the greatest chance for success

5. Execute your plan

If at any time you feel that you are unable to get up on your own, call for help.  Don’t risk further injury by attempting a risky strategy.  Know your limits and when to ask for help. 

If you have experienced falls or feel that you are at risk for one, work with a licensed physical therapist to improve your strength, balance, and train you on the body mechanics of getting up from the floor in a safe manner and keeping you in your home.