Arthritis and falls

Although most people do not become badly disabled with arthritis, people often experience symptoms that increase their risk of falling.

These include:

• Stiff, swollen and painful joints make some activities such as walking or standing up difficult;
• Problems with balance sensors in the spine can disturb postural awareness and overall balance;

• Restriction or loss of movement can make it difficult to react quickly;
• Problems with grip making it difficult to hold onto bannisters or handrails;
• Osteoarthritis of the knee causes a weakening of the thigh muscle from disuse whcich can make it difficult to react quickly.