Balance and Falls

Balance and Falls

People at all stages of life with cerebral palsy (CP) can fall due to different reasons including a decrease in muscle strength, poor control of muscles due to spasticity, pain and fatigue. However, as you get older, you may notice more difficulties with your balance and experience falls. Adults with cerebral palsy tend to have more issues with falls compared to teens or children with CP. As mobility decreases in middle and older adulthood, the risk of falling starts increasing.

It is recommended you see your physiotherapist for a review of your balance and mobility if you notice that you are:

  • Losing you balance more often
  • Having near misses with falling
  • Falling more often
  • Stumbling and tripping more frequently

A physiotherapist may help you with balance training, strengthening, activity practice, mobility devices and a review with recommendations for your home and community.