Feeling dizzy? Unsteady on your feet? Worried you could fall and break a bone?

Take advantage of free balance screenings offered by licensed therapists with St. Luke’s Hospital’s Rehabilitation Center. The free screenings will be offered Wednesday, March 7, from 8 a.m. to noon, by appointment.

In addition to the 15-minute screening, participants will learn tips to prevent falls and the problems they can cause.

“Falls can be dangerous at any age, but their complex physiology makes older people face a higher risk of falling,” said Scott McDermott, director of St. Luke’s Rehab Center. “For older adults, falls can be especially serious, causing a broken bone. Hip fractures can be very detrimental and cause disability and loss of independence. That’s what we hope to prevent by offering these balance screenings using our Biodex Balance System.”

The Biodex Balance System provides visual feedback regarding posture and balance control,  and, in less than two minutes, can provide results.

Balance problems can be caused by medications, alcohol, vision problems, and muscle weakness, just to name a few. The good news is there are prevention options, McDermott said.

“We want to help people lower their risks of falling,” the doctor said. “Exercise, supplements like calcium and vitamin D, and eliminating trip hazards in the home are pretty simple steps to take to stay balanced.

“By understanding and knowing the risk of falls, people can often make adjustments to reduce these risks.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment for the screening, please call 894-8419.

– Submitted by Kathy Woodham