I used to joke about falling down all the time. I’d say “It’s just what I do!” I’ve broken both legs, twice broken ribs, and had two concussions. I wore bruises like badges that I would laugh off. My family threatened to wrap me in bubble wrap. None of it was funny, but because doctors told me it was my “age” (I was in my mid 50’s) and sent me to PT (years of it), it was apparent they weren’t looking for why I was falling down.
Once (self) diagnosed with PMR last year and put on 20 mg prednisone, I stopped falling down. It took bad reactions to prednisone before Rheumatology would even see me. Just a week ago my diagnosis was “upgraded” from PMR to Seronegative RA. And I’m back to 5 mg prednisone. My balance is MUCH better when I’m on pred, and I haven’t broken any bones in over a year! Big victory! For now…
Being a “fall risk” is frightening, and so dangerous as we age. PT was helpful, but overall ineffective to keep me upright. Maybe it was caused by inflammation in my body and my inability to catch myself due to muscle and joint pain?
Please be careful, use a cane if necessary so you don’t break anything. My thoughts are with you.
Terri