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Falling forward

Posted by Rob @robseverson, Sep 21, 2017

I just walked my dog and had the same issue: falling forward. Sometimes it seem like I can't stop, have fallen once and came close several times. When I stop I start to fall forward too. I am in a balance therapy program but would like to know if others have experience this. I seem to list forward a lot. Just got a pacemaker but that didn't seem to help

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farmer0233 | @farmer0233 | Sep 13, 2022
In reply to @sueinmn "Wlecome to Mayo Connect, where we can offer you suggestions and encouragement, but not a diagnosis...." + (show)
@sueinmn

Wlecome to Mayo Connect, where we can offer you suggestions and encouragement, but not a diagnosis.
Your two posts make me think you should "dig your toes in" and insist on seeing a neurologist. I am particularly thinking that because of your description of needing to pause & think before you move, which really indicates there may be an issue of your brain-nerve-muscle connection.

Do you think you can convince your primary? Or can you refer yourself?
Sue

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I think you are right, might be a drug reaction. I had muscle spasms and my back pain. I have been going to the gym for years. Covid, everything shut down. I can't work out with a mask. I started my stretches and bike, My back pain and muscle spasms are gone. Having a hard time getting more muscle strength.

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kimbc1 | @kimbc1 | Oct 14, 2023
In reply to @robseverson "My PT is working on the falling forward thing with exercises. That is why I went..." + (show)
@robseverson

My PT is working on the falling forward thing with exercises. That is why I went to her
I'm looking for others with similar symptoms that may shed more light on this
It's not dizziness I'm not spinning, just holding myself up so I on't fall face down

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This is me. I feel like my toes don't hold me up and many times feel like I'm falling forward brushing my teeth, I did crush my hip but no problems after surgery, this started a couple of months post op!

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lcy | @lcy | Jan 30 11:34pm
In reply to @jeffkimble "I have major problems with falling forward particularly when walking. I tend to walk uncontrollably faster..." + (show)
@jeffkimble

I have major problems with falling forward particularly when walking. I tend to walk uncontrollably faster and faster until I just fall face first ! I need help desperately!!

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Hi Jeff, I'm reaching out to see if you were able to find an answer? My dad has just started experiencing what you describe, and I'd be grateful for anything you can share. Thanks so much, and I hope you are doing well -- Laura

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1 reply
Mentor
Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | Jan 31 8:23am
In reply to @lcy "Hi Jeff, I'm reaching out to see if you were able to find an answer? My..." + (show)
@lcy

Hi Jeff, I'm reaching out to see if you were able to find an answer? My dad has just started experiencing what you describe, and I'd be grateful for anything you can share. Thanks so much, and I hope you are doing well -- Laura

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First, a few questions about Dad - is he independent, or do you or someone else provide some care for him? Does he have other health issues - many can be tied to increased fall risk. Has he had a recent illness or hospitalization? Is Dad generally active, or very sedentary - he may be getting week.

If my Dad was having this issue, here are the steps I would suggest to him (or arrange for him) -
A physical with standing/sitting/reclining blood pressure checks, blood chemistry to rule out anemia, electrolyte imbalances, a silent infection or other correctible causes and a balance check.
A review of his medications to see if any increase risk of dizziness of falls (a trained RN or clinical pharmacist is best for this task.)
If these seem normal, some strength and balance training with a physical therapist - they can sometimes spot other issues and report them to the doctor.
Hearing and vision checks if he hasn't had them recently.
A neurology consult if the above checks don't give the answer.

Does this give you a starting place?

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