Physical Therapist Mahir Reiss Responds to A Study Reducing the Risk of Falls

PHILADELPHIA, PA, June 10, 2013

A recent article in the Courier-Journal responds to the devastating falls seniors can experience, suggesting that physical therapy exercises is an effective solution, winning the comment of physical therapist Mahir Reiss. The article points out the proactive results of physical therapy when older adults begin to experience unsteadiness by commenting on the personal experience of elder patient Jules Marquart. "I'm trying to reduce my risk of injury," she said. "Once you lose that functioning, it's much harder to regain it."

The article's mentioning of physical therapy as a tool for senior citizens sparked an interest in Mahir Reiss, the co-founder of Reiss and Westwood Physical Therapy. The practice originated after doctors Reiss and Westwood met at the physical therapy program at the University of Delaware. As a board-certified physical therapist with more than 35 years of clinical experience, Mahir Reiss reaches out on the topic of falling and other related issues.

"I've worked with several patients who receive treatment for balance issues and vertigo, giving them the tools they need to reduce their risk of falls," he said. "With the help of proper physical therapy exercises, the balance system can be restored, just like conditioning a muscle through training and perseverance."

The article mentions one of the leading problems among individuals struggling with balance and vertigo challenges. The director of the Kentucky Orthopedic Rehab Team's Springhurst clinic speaks out on the issue of admitting a need for help. "People are embarrassed to talk about falls, or they kind of write it off as a 'Oh well, I just kind of slipped. It was just kind of a coincidence,' and they don't say anything to their physician," said Robin Harrington. "If a person experiences more than one fall a year, we need to be looking into it," she remarked.

The report continues to assess the various forms of treatment to reduce the risks of falls, commenting on the level of severity. "Sometimes people need general strengthening of their legs by, for example, using a bike or weight machine," Robin Harrington commented. "Others might need a device such as a cane or a walker, or they may need to be challenged in different ways. For example, they might be asked to do balance exercises on foam pads or other devices."

Mahir Reiss responds to her approach for personalized therapy solutions. "Some patients who experience dizziness may need vestibular rehabilitation, which may require maneuvering the patient's body to address the dislodged crystals or otoconia in the person's ear. This issue can develop from an injury or simply from sneezing," he said. Mahir Reiss continues to point out that many patients need balance and visual exercises incorporated into therapy.

ABOUT:

Mahir Reiss is a physical therapist practicing in San Diego, California. He co-founded and operates the practice, offering extensive services to professional athletes and older adults needing treatment. The PT facilities supply patients with competitive services, using high end equipment and techniques. The group focuses on individuals experiencing chronic pain, injury rehabilitation and other related issues. His practice is dedicated to the unique partnership between patient and practitioner, enhancing their overall experience and quality of life.