Falls Prevention Exercise Physiology
Falls prevention exercise can help you feel steadier, stronger and more confident on your feet. At MTP Health, our accredited exercise physiologists work with older adults across Sydney's North Shore and Northern Beaches who have had a fall, a near miss, or simply feel less sure of their balance than they used to.
We start by finding out what is contributing to your falls risk, then build a strength and balance program around it. Sessions run face-to-face at St Leonards and Beacon Hill, or online, and you don't need a referral to get started.
Who Falls Prevention Is For
You don't need to have fallen to benefit. Many people come to see us when they notice small changes that make everyday movement feel less certain.
Falls prevention exercise may suit you if you:
- have had a fall or a near fall in the past year
- feel unsteady when turning, walking outdoors or on uneven ground
- reach for furniture or walls as you move around at home
- find it harder to stand up from a chair without using your hands
- have become more cautious, or avoid activities, because you are worried about falling
- live with a condition that can affect balance or strength, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes or Parkinson's disease
- have recently been in hospital and feel weaker than before
If a recent fall has left you with new pain or a possible injury, see your GP, our physiotherapy team or our Urgent Injury Clinic first. Our exercise physiologists can then pick up the strength and balance work when you are ready.
Your Falls Risk Assessment
Your first appointment is a 50-minute initial consultation that includes a functional assessment. We want to understand how you move, what feels difficult and what matters most to you.
Depending on your needs, your exercise physiologist may look at:
- your falls history, health conditions, medications and activity levels
- standing balance, with your feet together and in more challenging positions
- a timed up and go test, which measures how you rise from a chair, walk, turn and sit back down
- a sit-to-stand test to gauge leg strength and endurance
- walking speed, step length and how you manage turns
- your confidence with everyday activities, including any you have stopped doing
Track changes over time
These measures give us a baseline, so we can track changes over time and adjust your program as you progress. We also note anything that may be worth raising with your GP.
What Falls Prevention Exercise Involves
Falls prevention exercise tends to work well when it is specific, progressive and continued over time. Research supports programs that challenge balance and build strength, rather than general activity alone.
You will usually have a short home routine to keep your practice going between sessions.
Rebuilding Confidence After a Fall
A fall can shake your confidence, even without an injury. It is natural to start moving less, but doing less can gradually reduce strength and balance, which may make another fall more likely.
Our role is to help you rebuild trust in your body step by step. We start with movements that feel manageable, explain why each exercise matters and progress only when you feel ready. Small, practical wins, such as walking to the local shops again, can help that confidence grow.
Working With Your Health Team
Falls rarely come down to one cause, so exercise is one part of the picture. During your assessment, we talk through other factors that may add to your risk and who can help with them:
- your GP, for a review of medications, blood pressure, vision, dizziness or other new symptoms
- our physiotherapy team, if you have a new injury or pain after a fall
- an occupational therapist, if equipment or changes around the home may help
We also have a practical home safety conversation about lighting, rugs, steps, footwear and getting up at night. With your permission, we can keep your GP updated on your progress.
Related Services
These related services sit alongside falls prevention:
Steadier and More Confident on Your Feet
Feeling steadier on your feet starts with understanding what is affecting your balance. Our exercise physiologists can assess your falls risk and build a program that suits your health, goals and pace.
Book an appointment at St Leonards or Beacon Hill, or ask us about online sessions. No referral is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a referral for falls prevention exercise?
No, you can book directly with our exercise physiologists. If you see a GP or specialist, bringing a summary of your health conditions and medications helps us plan your program safely.
Is it safe to do balance exercises if I already feel unsteady?
Balance exercises can be done safely when they are matched to your level and supervised. Your exercise physiologist stays close by, uses support such as a rail or bench where needed, and increases the challenge gradually.
Can I take part if I use a walking stick or frame?
Many people who use a walking aid take part in falls prevention exercise. We adapt each exercise to your needs, and part of your program may focus on moving more confidently with your aid.
How long before I notice a difference?
Everyone responds differently. Some people feel steadier within a few weeks, while measurable changes in strength and balance usually take longer and depend on regular practice, so we plan for the long term.
Can I use Medicare for falls prevention exercise?
If you have a chronic health condition, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate on a limited number of allied health sessions through a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan. Check with your GP about eligibility, and our team can talk you through other options.