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528 Chama, N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87108 http://www.cbass.com |
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Don't Fall Down I never worried much about falling down - until I caught my foot under the rug in our bedroom and fell flat on my back. I stayed on the floor for a while, until I pulled myself together and got back in bed. Had it not been for years of training my body, I might be sitting in a doctor's waiting room to be examined for injuries. He or she would probably conclude by referring us to someone to look over our home for fall risks. * * * The December 2024 issue of Arthritis Advisor includes a piece entitled "Preventing Hip Fractures," which I believe includes much of the advice the doctor would have given me had my fall been more serious. The article begins, "The number one reason I hear from my patients is that they tripped - on a rug, a pet, or the stairs," says Cleveland Clinic orthopedic surgeon Cesar Careijo, M.D. He adds that bone and muscle strength and balance are also key factors in prevention. Bone Health "The stronger your bones are the less likely you are to have a hip, or any, fracture from a fall," Dr. Careijo begins. Healthy eating and weight bearing exercise, such as walking and running, stimulate bone remodeling. Bone density testing is also recommended. I've had this done at the Cooper Clinic several times, always with excellent results. They marvel at the density of my bones This tells me that weight training builds bone health. Improve Balance Exercise is important not only for strengthening bones and muscle, but also balance and stability. In addition to regular aerobic and muscle-strengthening, people ages 65 and older should strive to improve balance. I've never tried Tai Chi, but it has been found to help both strength and promote stability. "Even just walking up and down the street every day can help," says Dr. Careijo. "Find ways to stay active." Remove Trip Hazards We've already said to remove trip hazards, but Dr. Careijo says there may be more than we realize. "Walk around with an eye toward removing objects such as small rugs." (That's what caused my fall.) "Stairs should have railing. Showers should have grab bars." (We just purchased one for our shower.) "In winter, be careful on ice and snow. Clear and salt outdoor walkways and driveways." Don't fall down!
This photo of me looking out over Albuquerque was taken by Bill Reynolds. There's one heck of a fall from there. March 1, 2025 Comment on this article: FEEDBACK Ripped Enterprises, P.O. Box 51236, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87181-1236 Home | Products Index | Ripped Bks | Lean Adv. Bks | Lean For Life | Recommended Bks | |Consultations | Tapes | To Order | Feedback] Copyright © 2025 Clarence and Carol Bass. All rights reserved.
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