Fall Risk Assessment
Prevent Falls Before They Happen — Expert Fall Risk Assessments in Tampa Bay
Falls are one of the leading causes of serious injury in older adults — and in many cases they are entirely preventable. At Total Foot and Ankle of Tampa Bay our physicians offer comprehensive fall risk assessments at all five of our locations — Brandon, Riverview, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, and Sun City Center.
If you or a loved one has experienced a fall, feels unsteady on their feet, or has been told they are at risk, a professional evaluation can make a significant difference in safety, confidence, and quality of life.
Why Fall Risk Assessment Matters
Your feet and ankles play a critical role in balance and stability. Conditions like neuropathy, foot deformities, muscle weakness, poor footwear, and improper gait can all increase your risk of falling without you even realizing it.
In Florida, falls are particularly common among the senior population. For patients in Sun City Center, Zephyrhills, and surrounding retirement communities, a proactive fall risk evaluation is one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term health and independence.
The consequences of a fall can be severe:
- Hip fractures
- Head injuries
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of independence
- Decreased quality of life
- Increased risk of future falls
What Causes Falls?
Many fall-related factors originate in the feet and lower extremities. Our physicians evaluate:
- Peripheral neuropathy — numbness or loss of sensation in the feet that affects balance
- Foot deformities — bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet that alter your gait
- Muscle weakness — reduced strength in the feet, ankles, and lower legs
- Improper footwear — shoes that don't provide adequate support or stability
- Gait abnormalities — changes in the way you walk that increase fall risk
- Ankle instability — history of sprains or chronic instability
- Poor circulation — reduced blood flow affecting strength and coordination
- Arthritis — joint pain and stiffness that affects movement and balance
- Diabetic complications — nerve damage and circulation issues common in diabetic patients
What to Expect During Your Fall Risk Assessment
Our fall risk assessment is thorough, non-invasive, and completed entirely in the office. Your evaluation may include:
- Medical history review — previous falls, medications, chronic conditions, and symptoms
- Foot and ankle examination — checking for deformities, skin changes, and nerve function
- Neurological testing — evaluating sensation, reflexes, and proprioception
- Gait and balance analysis — observing how you walk and identifying risk factors
- Footwear evaluation — assessing whether your current shoes support safe movement
- Strength assessment — testing muscle function in the feet, ankles, and lower legs
Based on your results your doctor will create a personalized plan to reduce your fall risk.
How We Reduce Your Fall Risk
After your assessment our physicians may recommend a combination of the following:
- Custom orthotics — designed to improve balance, stability, and proper foot alignment
- Diabetic shoes — providing extra support and protection for at-risk patients
- Bracing or ankle support — stabilizing weak or unstable ankles
- Physical therapy referral — strengthening exercises and balance training
- Footwear recommendations — guidance on the best shoes for your specific needs
- Treatment of underlying conditions — addressing neuropathy, arthritis, or circulation issues that contribute to fall risk
- Medication review coordination — working with your primary care physician if medications are affecting balance
Who Should Get a Fall Risk Assessment?
We recommend a fall risk evaluation for anyone who:
- Has experienced one or more falls in the past year
- Feels unsteady or dizzy when walking
- Has been diagnosed with diabetes or peripheral neuropathy
- Has a history of ankle sprains or instability
- Notices numbness, tingling, or weakness in the feet or legs
- Has difficulty walking on uneven surfaces
- Is over 65 and concerned about balance
- Has a family member or caregiver who has noticed changes in their walking
Serving Seniors and Active Adults Across Tampa Bay
Our fall risk assessment program is available at all five of our Tampa Bay locations. Whether you are in Brandon, Riverview, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, or Sun City Center, our experienced podiatrists are here to help you stay safe, active, and independent.
Call (813) 788-3600 or Book an Appointment today to schedule your fall risk assessment.