Improving Balance for Better Health

Improving Balance for Better Health

Prevent falls as you ageWalking is a great source of exercise, especially as you get older and are more prone to injuries. It’s easy and safe. Berkley also has a wonderful community park at Catalpa with kept trails for you to wander in and stay in shape. However, the older you get, the more you have to consider your balance. A fall could seriously injure you. Working to improve your balance, then, is increasingly important.

Your feet play a crucial role in your ability to balance well. If your lower limbs are weak, you are far more likely to fall. Improving your balance by exercising your feet helps you prevent falls and avoid the injuries that frequently result from a tumble.

Try these simple exercises to build stability in your feet and ankles:

  • One foot balancing – Stand on one foot next to a chair and hold on to its back. Let go of the chair and try to balance for 30 seconds. As that gets easier, extend your time to a minute. As that becomes easier, try it while closing your eyes or standing on a pillow.
  • Heel-to-toe walking – Walk in a straight line across a room. For each step, set your heel down directly in front of the other foot, so the back of your heel touches the tips of your toes.
  • Leg lifts – Balancing on one leg, lift your other foot a few inches off the ground straight in front of you. Rotate your foot at the ankle 10 times, move it to one side and the other, and repeat.

Improving balance does take time, but the effort is worth it. The stronger your feet and ankles become, the better they will be able to hold you up and keep your steps stable. It’s far better to prevent a fall than have to deal with the pain and potential damage afterwards. Contact NorthPointe Foot & Ankle here in Berkley, MI, for an appointment to evaluate and improve your balance. Call (248) 545-0100 or use our online contact form to reach us.

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