Falls Specialist

Muhammad Nayer, M.D. -  - Neurologist

Tri-State Neurology: Muhammad Nayer, M.D.

Muhammad Nayer, M.D.

Neurologist & Sleep Medicine located in Henderson, NV & Bullhead City, AZ

If you suffer from a neurological disorder, you may be at an elevated risk for falls, which can lead to serious health outcomes. At Tri-State Neurological & Sleep Disorder Center in Henderson, Nevada and Bullhead City, AZ, Muhammad Nayer MD can help you reduce your risk of falling as part of your comprehensive care plan. A fall can exacerbate many medical conditions, reduce your independence, and create a cascade of negative effects. To learn how to prevent falls, schedule an appointment with Dr. Nayer today using the simple online tool or by calling the office.

Falls Q & A

Why is it so important to prevent falls?

When you’re young and healthy, your body can respond to falls with relative ease. You can often spring right back up and continue on your way. As you age, however, falls pose a far more serious health risk.

A fall can lead to a serious strain or sprain, a broken bone, or painful soft tissue injury. In some cases, falls can lead to hospital stays or even disability. Fear of falling is also detrimental to your overall health, as it can lead you to embrace a sedentary lifestyle which carries yet another set of health risks.

What are some common causes of falls?

Numerous health conditions can increase your risk of falling, including:

  • Diabetes
  • Circulatory problems
  • Heart disease
  • Nervous system disorders
  • Thyroid issues
  • Certain medications

Falls can also be caused by your choice of footwear or your living environment. Fortunately, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of falling. Evaluating your home and removing potential fall hazards is a great place to begin, but you might also need professional treatment to lower your risk even further.   

What is gait disorder?

Functional gait disorder is characterized by abnormal movement or body positioning during walking. Gait disorder is involuntary, and can manifest in many different ways, including:

  • Sudden knee buckling
  • Dragging of one leg
  • Swaying gait
  • Crouching gait
  • Small, slow steps
  • Hyperkinetic gait

Some men and women can walk normally, but have trouble standing still. This condition is called astasia.

Treatment options for gait disorder include physiotherapy, which involves using targeted exercise or training to help your brain recalibrate your walking function. You might be asked to walk backward, run, or hum a song while you walk.  

Noninvasive electrical brain stimulation can also be a good treatment option, especially when used in conjunction with physical therapy.
If you or a loved one is experiencing changes in your gait or increased falls, book an appointment with Dr. Nayer to explore treatment options to help you regain stability and enjoy an active and healthy life. You can book your visit online or by phone.