Khaberni - Standing on one foot may seem like a simple move, but doctors see it as a quick test that reveals a lot about bodily health, especially with aging.
According to a report published by HuffPost, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that one in every four adults over the age of 65 experiences a fall annually, which in many cases leads to hospital admission or significant lifestyle changes.
Maureen Dale, a geriatric medicine specialist and associate professor at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine at Chapel Hill, says that falling is one of the biggest health concerns for the elderly, as it can cause severe injuries like hip or spinal fractures, which can severely affect daily life.
James F. Wise, a spine and sports medicine specialist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, believes that the best way to prevent fractures is not just to strengthen the bones, but to prevent falling in the first place.
Experts affirm that the natural ability to stand on one foot for at least 10 seconds is a good sign, but if a person is unable to maintain balance for this duration, it may be an indicator that warrants consulting a doctor.
Janice McGrail, a physical therapy specialist at the Spaulding Rehabilitation Center affiliated with Mass General Brigham, explains that the ability to balance for up to 30 seconds is much better.
An inability to balance might indicate several causes, such as weak leg or core muscles, the effects of certain medications, or a deficiency in vitamin B12. It may also be linked to decreased sensation in the feet and legs.
Balance can be improved through simple daily activities, such as standing on one leg while brushing teeth or waiting for food to heat up. However, experts recommend doing so near a kitchen table or sink to ensure safety.
Doctors note that practicing sports exercises three times a week, in addition to activities like Tai Chi or yoga, can significantly enhance balance.
Maureen Dale concludes by emphasizing that general health care, such as managing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, plays an important role in maintaining balance as we age.
