ALEXANDRIA, VA, October 27, 2008 — Maintaining physical
activity following a fall, similar to the one taken recently by former
First Lady Nancy Reagan, 87, is crucial to a full recovery, says the
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
"For older individuals who have fallen and experienced a fracture, it
is imperative for physical therapy to begin during their hospital stay,"
says APTA spokesperson and physical therapist Kathleen Kline Mangione,
PT, PhD, GCS, a professor of physical therapy at Arcadia University in
Glenside, PA. "Older adults who fracture their pelvis and sacrum
(tailbone), as did Mrs. Reagan, will initially have physical therapy
every day during their hospital stay, primarily to maintain mobility and
function. Following a typical hospital stay of three days, the patient
may then be moved to a sub-acute care facility, where their physical
therapy can continue for several weeks, and eventually to their home
with home-health physical therapy.
Mangione notes that during her recovery period, Mrs. Reagan will most
likely work with physical therapists on muscle strengthening exercises,
improving range of motion, working on sit-to-stand positions, and gait
training, with the end goal of her regaining her independence.
"Like any patient, Mrs. Reagan's prior level of function will
determine future functioning," says Mangione. "That is, if an individual
has kept active and maintains good nutrition then their recovery from a
fall will be that much quicker. If all goes as planned then Mrs. Reagan
should make a full recovery in 6-8 weeks."
In similar cases of falls, physical therapists will determine the
cause of the fall, including accessing balance, muscle weakness,
awareness of body position sense, and the surrounding environment. Once
a cause has been determined, a physical therapist will design an
individualized program of exercises and activities with an emphasis on
strength, flexibility, balance and proper gait. If necessary, the
physical therapist will refer the patient to other medical
professionals, such as an internist or neurologist, observes
Mangione.
To improve balance and reduce the risk of another fall, physical
therapists may recommend stability and strengthening exercises; a formal
exercise program; a walking regimen that includes balance components
such as changes in surfaces/terrains, distance, and elevations; Tai Chi
(which emphasizes balance, weight shifting, coordination, and postural
training); and aquatics classes geared toward balance and
coordination.
Physical therapists are health care professionals who diagnose and
manage individuals of all ages, from newborns to elders, who have
medical problems or other health-related conditions that limit their
abilities to move and perform functional activities in their daily
lives. Physical therapists examine each individual and develop a plan of
care using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce
pain, restore function, and prevent disability. Physical therapists also
work with individuals to prevent the loss of mobility by developing
fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for healthier and more active
lifestyles.
APTA (www.apta.org) is a national organization, representing physical
therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students of physical
therapy nationwide. Its purpose is to improve the health and quality of
life of individuals in society by advancing physical therapy practice.
Consumers can visit www.findapt.us to find a physical therapist in their
area, as well as www.moveforwardpt.com for physical therapy news and
information.