PAIN IN OLDER ADULTS
AND FALL PREVENTION
With age, pain in the spine and joints becomes more common and balance weakens. With Dr. Verbitskiy in Maribor, we use gentle manual therapy and simple exercises to help preserve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
Over the years muscle strength and joint mobility decrease, and wear of the spine and joints and weakened bones (osteoporosis) are also common. Because of pain and fear of falling many older people move less, which makes the problems worse. We therefore adapt the treatment: we use gentle techniques without jerky movements, with the emphasis on mobility, balance and safe movement.
Why older people are more exposed to problems and falls
Contributing factors are:
- 🔹 Wear of the spine and joints (osteoarthritis, osteochondrosis)
- 🔹 Reduced muscle strength, especially in the legs and trunk
- 🔹 Impaired balance and slower reactions
- 🔹 Reduced mobility of the ankles, hips and spine
- 🔹 Medication or other illnesses that cause dizziness or unsteadiness (identified by a doctor)
- 🔹 Fear of falling, which leads to less movement and further weakening
How the problems present
We often observe:
- 🔹 Pain and stiffness in the back, knees or hips
- 🔹 Difficulty standing up from a chair or climbing stairs
- 🔹 A feeling of unsteadiness or an uncertain gait
- 🔹 Frequent tripping or near-falls
- 🔹 Fear of falling and less movement
- 🔹 Tiredness after a short walk
How we treat older adults
Treatment is gentle and adapted to the state of health. The aim is to reduce pain, preserve mobility and strengthen balance so that you stay independent.
1. Assessment of condition
A conversation about health and medication, examination of mobility, posture, gait and balance.
2. Gentle manual therapy
Release of tight muscles and gentle improvement of mobility, without jerky techniques.
3. Balance and strength exercises
Simple exercises for balance, leg strength and safe walking, plus tips for safety at home.
Signs that require immediate attention
Seek medical help after a fall with pain, swelling or difficulty bearing weight, with sudden severe back pain (possible vertebral fracture), with unexplained falls or dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness or sudden speech and vision disturbances. These may be signs of a serious condition.
Treatment of older adults takes place in agreement with the doctor, especially with osteoporosis, heart disease or blood-thinning medication. Manual therapy is a complement to medical care, not a replacement.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Frequently asked questions about pain in older adults and falls
Is manual therapy safe with osteoporosis?
We use gentle techniques without jerky movements and adapt the treatment to the condition of the bones. A consultation with the doctor is recommended before treatment.
Do exercises really reduce the risk of falling?
Regular balance and strength exercises are among the most recommended measures for preventing falls. We adapt the exercises to your abilities.
How can I reduce the risk of falls at home?
Remove loose rugs, make sure the lighting is good, wear suitable footwear and use grab rails in the bathroom. You will receive more guidance after the examination.
Should I avoid movement because of pain?
Complete rest usually worsens the problems. We recommend adapted, regular movement; what is suitable we judge after the examination.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed for a visit; you can arrange an appointment directly by phone or WhatsApp.
How many treatments do I need?
It depends on the problems and the state of health; many patients feel relief after the first visits, while greater stability requires a longer programme with exercises.
Contact us
Get in touch with any questions or to book an appointment.
Please bring one large towel with you to your appointment.
Please confirm your appointment by phone or WhatsApp one hour beforehand, or two hours beforehand if you are travelling a long way. This way you avoid a wasted trip if an appointment has to be rescheduled at short notice.