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| Linda Gaddis |
Walking hasn’t always been a challenge for Linda. In fact, this retired schoolteacher has always been active, even since being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 20 years ago. But a few years ago, she developed back problems and eventually underwent two spinal surgeries. While doing physical therapy at Reid Rehab, Linda found she really liked physical therapist Darcey Garno.
“I was really comfortable with Darcey and felt like therapy was helping me get stronger,” said Linda, who lives in Richmond with her husband, David. “Still, I had to use a walker to get around, and I didn’t like that. When Darcey told me about a new class she was teaching called Fallproof, I decided to give it a try.”
Fallproof is a great fit for Linda. The 12-week class meets twice a week for an hour and includes exercises to increase strength and balance, practice walking on uneven surfaces, conversations about how to prevent falls, and much more. “The class was intense, and Darcey sometimes pushed us to the limit,” Linda said. “There were just four of us in the class, so she was able to focus on our individual needs. I liked the camaraderie of the group, too.”
Linda, like all Fallproof participants, underwent an assessment before her first class. She received a score of 7 out of 40 for balance, a score that improved to 14 out of 40 after her last class of the session. She also increased her walking speed from 1.8 feet per second to 3.4 feet per second.
These days, Linda can get around her house without a walker or a cane, although she takes her cane with her when she does errands or goes out to coffee with David. “Fallproof has helped me in a lot of ways, and was a really positive experience,” she said. “I am going to take the class again, because I’m determined to keep getting better.”
Is Fallproof Right for You?
Reid Hospital’s 12-week Fallproof class improves balance, flexibility and strength to help participants overcome their fear of falling and build confidence so that they can be as independent as possible. The class incorporates group activities and can be a lot of fun. It meets twice a week for 12 weeks and takes place at Reid Rehab, 2021 Chester Blvd.
Anyone who has fallen or is worried about falling should consider taking this class. Those who are interested will be asked to come in for a screening to make sure the class is a good fit for their needs. The class is designed for people with a moderate risk of falling; those who are considered high risk might want to consider one-on-one physical therapy.
For more information or to register for Fallproof, please call Reid Rehab at (765) 983-3092.