November is Fall Prevention Month in Canada, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of reducing falls and keeping individuals safe and independent. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among Canadians, but the good news is that many falls are preventable with the right knowledge and care.
At Sheddon Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic in Oakville, our team is committed to helping our community stay active and safe. Through education, assessment, and physiotherapy, we provide the tools and guidance needed to reduce fall risk and improve quality of life.
Why Falls Happen:
Common Causes We See at Our Oakville Clinic
At Sheddon, we frequently see a number of factors that contribute to fall risk, including:
Age-related changes such as reduced balance, decreased muscle strength, and slower reaction time
Mobility limitations or previous injuries, including joint stiffness or post-surgery recovery
Poor posture or gait abnormalities, which make walking less stable
Dizziness or medication side effects
Home and environmental hazards, such as clutter, loose rugs, or poor lighting
Seasonal challenges in Oakville, including icy sidewalks, snow buildup, or slippery wet leaves
The Impact of Falls
Falls have a significant impact on individuals and families across Canada:
They are the leading cause of injury-related emergency room visits for older adults.
Physical consequences include fractures, pain, reduced mobility, and prolonged recovery.
The emotional toll, such as fear of falling again, can lead to decreased activity and loss of independence.
Falls can be prevented, and we’re here to help you do just that.
How Physiotherapy Helps Prevent Falls
Comprehensive Assessments
At Sheddon Physiotherapy, we offer detailed assessments that evaluate:
Balance and coordination
Lower-body strength
Gait and walking patterns
Mobility and functional movements
These assessments are ideal for anyone over 60, anyone with a history of falls, or anyone who feels unsteady or unsure on their feet.
Strength & Balance Training
We design individualized programs that focus on:
Hip, knee, and ankle strengthening
Core stability
Neuromuscular and balance retraining
Improving reaction time and stability
Research consistently shows that targeted strengthening and balance exercises significantly reduce fall risk.
Gait Retraining
Many fall risks come from how a person walks.
We help correct:
Shuffling
Uneven steps
Compensations due to pain or stiffness
Vestibular Physiotherapy
For patients experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or inner-ear–related balance problems, we offer vestibular physiotherapy provided by trained specialists at our clinic. Improving vestibular function can dramatically reduce fall risk and improve day-to-day stability.
Education & Home Strategies
We ensure patients leave with practical tools, including:
Proper footwear recommendations
Home safety modifications
Tips for walking outdoors safely in winter
Activity recommendations to stay strong and mobile
Simple At-Home Tips to Reduce Fall Risk
You can start reducing your fall risk today with small, simple changes:
Remove clutter, secure loose rugs, and ensure hallways are well lit
Wear supportive, non-slip footwear
Practice balance exercises daily (such as standing on one leg while holding a counter for support)
Use handrails on stairs and install non-slip mats in bathrooms
Stay active throughout the winter to maintain strength and mobility
When to Book an Assessment
You may benefit from an assessment if you or a loved one has noticed:
Feeling unsteady or needing to hold on to furniture
A recent slip, trip, or fall
Dizziness or vertigo
Slower walking or shuffling
Muscle weakness
Difficulty with stairs or getting out of a chair
Recovering from surgery or injury
Be proactive, early intervention prevents future injury.
How Sheddon Makes Fall Prevention Easy
Sheddon Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic offers:
3 convenient clinic locations
Direct billing and acceptance of most insurance plans
Flexible scheduling (early mornings, late evenings, weekends)
A multidisciplinary team including physiotherapists, athletic therapists, and vestibular specialists
Book your Assessment today at Sheddon Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic.
Start improving your strength, balance, and confidence, so you can stay safe and active all year long.
Let us help you stay strong, independent, and supported.
Call us at: 905-849-4576
