One of the perils of advancing age is the fall, which can leave a person with a debilitating injury like a broken hip. Muscle and bone strength deteriorate over the years as does our ability to stay balanced. The American Chiropractic Association recommends a number of practices to help avoid a fall:

Periodically review with your physician the type and dosage of prescriptions you may be taking. Some can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.

Start or renew an exercise program designed to keep you flexible and to increase your strength and coordination. It’s hard to beat something as simple as walking, which is also beneficial to your overall health. Exercising in water and practicing Tai Chi are two other low-impact forms of exercise.

Go for an eye exam and check your home for tripping hazards, like a rug that’s curled at the corner or an electrical cord that should be more out of the way.

You can minimize the debilitating effects of osteoporosis — the thinning of bone mass – and in turn the risk of fracture due to falls, by consuming sufficient amounts of calcium and vitamin D, which helps bones absorb calcium.

Talk with your chiropractor and your family physician about ways to protect yourself from falls as you grow older.

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com