Episode 15 - A New Perspective on Fall Prevention with Ron Blehm
Join us for a fascinating conversation with Ron Blehm, PT, CEEAA, CSFI, CFPS, a leading expert in fall prevention. Ron has dedicated his 30-year career to helping patients achieve optimal function. He is currently a Primary Care PT and he's here to share his eye-opening insights on a critical issue often overlooked in physical therapy.
In this episode, Ron delves into his extensive research on fall prevention, revealing simple yet powerful screening tools and treatment protocols that every PT can implement, regardless of their specialization. He emphasizes the urgency of addressing fall risk as our population ages, empowering therapists to make a real difference in the lives of their patients.
Key takeaways:
The surprising impact of fall risk on future general health outcomes
Easy-to-use screening tools that can be integrated into any PT practice.
Effective treatment strategies to mitigate fall risk and improve patient outcomes.
Why gait speed is a vital sign and how to use it to assess fall risk.
His incredible past research efforts on this topic
Don't miss this opportunity to gain a fresh perspective on fall prevention and elevate your practice to new heights!
Additional Info:
Because the population is aging, it is imperative that all Physical Therapists (regardless of their area of expertise) be aware of these screening tools to identify those who are at most risk.
References:
Guccione in Geriatric Physical Therapy, 2013
Elrod in Elsevier, Oct. 2020
APTA Geriatric Section Guidelines 2020
Horak, 2006 PMID: 16926210
Horak, 2009 PMID: 19329772
King, 2015 PMID: 26308937
King, 2014 PMID: 25102383
Izquidero, 2021 PMID: 36098146
Wei, 2024 PMID: 39074909
Bartosch, 2021 PMID: 33661308
Lee, 2015 PMID: 25767167
Kojima, 2018 PMID: 29040347
Wilson, 2004 PMID: 15381535
Parry, 2016 PMID: 27676247
Lucas, 2014 PMID: 24481484
Gordon, 2020 PMID: 32143634
Clemson, 2004 PMID: 15341550
Goldman, 2016 PMID: 27434271
Stevens and Lee, Sep. 2018 PMID: 30122212
Gait Speed was recommended as a Vital Sign (every visit) in the Guide to PT Practice, 2001