Last week we blogged about what to do when you realize that you are falling.  A fall can be embarrassing, surprising, even painful.  You’ve gotten back up and you’ve seen your chiropractor.  Your chiropactor helped to put your body back into alignment and started you on the road to recovery.

Now what?

That fall might make you feel different about yourself.  You might feel less secure or safe going about your daily life.  What should you do?

The number one thing to do after having a fall

Stay active.

It’s natural to be concerned about falling again.  But inactivity actually increases your risk of falling.

This is because there are common daily activities, like getting dressed, making meals, and doing household chores, where you’ll have to move around.  If you avoid any other activity for fear of another fall, you’ll lose body strength and balance.  That will make everyday life more risky and more challenging.

So, the number one thing to do is to resist the temptation to give up your optional activities for fear of another fall.  Staying active improves your quality of life.  It will also help to build your strength and balance.

Six more important things to do after having a fall

Secondly, use your mobility aids.   They can help you to feel more secure, which will help you to stay active.  Make sure they are the right size for you.  There is nothing embarrassing about using a mobility aid, just like there is nothing embarrassing about wearing glasses or hearing aids.  When a tool helps you–use it!

Thirdly, have your vision and hearing checked, if you haven’t done so lately.  It’s easy to fall when you can’t see your footing clearly.  It’s also easy to fall if ear issues are affecting your balance.  You may think your vision and hearing are fine, but it’s possible that they have changed so slowly that you haven’t noticed what you’ve lost.

Fourthly, see your family doctor.  If you are taking medications, have them evaluated.  Interactions between medications can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and increased risk of falls.

Fifthly, evaluate your diet.  It’s easy to feel weak and dizzy if you have low blood sugar, if you’re dehydrated, or if you aren’t getting enough nutrients.  Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables along with lean protein.  Eat regularly throughout the day and drink plenty of fresh water.  Avoid skipping meals.

Finally, see your chiropractor regularly.  Regular maintenance care will keep your nervous system and musculo-skeletal system working at their best.

If you don’t already have your next maintenance appointment booked, phone Sheppard Chiropractic Center at (506) 635-8182 or (506) 847-7172.  Regular chiropractic care will help you to stay active after a fall.