Balance Training and Reducing Fall Risk

Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury in the United States. In this presentation, learn why those who have sustained a brain injury may be at further risk of falling and injury, and the impact of falls on individual and societal health. Presenters identify the personal and environmental factors that put an individual at risk of falling. They also explain how skilled physical therapy services and balance training can help individuals maintain their independence and mobility.

 Session Objectives:

• Discuss how the diverse and unique impairments associated with brain injury contribute to falls.
• Describe the impact of falls on individual and societal health.
• Identify the personal and environmental factors that put individuals at risk of falling.
• Explain how skilled physical therapy services and balance training can help individuals maintain their independence and mobility.

Michael Cyr, PT, DPT, received his doctorate in physical therapy from the University of New England. He is also a board-certified neurologic clinical specialist. He is the Director of Clinical Education and a Lead of Clinical Excellence for the Maine Strong Balance Centers, where he is an outpatient physical therapist. He continues to teach doctoral-level PT classes at his alma mater.

Katherine “Katie” Heller, PT, DPT, received her doctorate in physical therapy from Regis University. She is the co-director of clinical excellence and the supervisor of the Saco location for the Maine Strong Balance Centers. She is a clinical faculty member and guest lecturer with the University of New England, including their advanced neuro course.

Jason Adour, PT, DPT, received his doctorate in physical therapy from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in Boston. He is the founder and president of the Maine Strong Balance Centers, which are outpatient physical therapy clinics that specialize in neurorehabilitation, dizziness, and mobility.