Inspiring Tip Top Balance
Chances are you aren’t going for gold in this summer’s Olympic Games, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use the excitement to push yourself to be the most active version of yourself.
“Being a Sports Medicine doctor, we get very excited for the Olympics,” said Meg Gibson, MD, who not only treats patients at University Health (UH), but also serves as a team physician for University of Missouri-Kansas City athletes.
Dr. Gibson’s love for the Olympics started at a young age. She remembers watching gymnast Mary Lou Retton on her family room television while trying to copy Retton’s moves. A few years ago, after hearing how Olympian Suni Lee’s father built a balance beam in the family’s backyard, Dr. Gibson and her children did the same.
No matter your current fitness level, the Olympics can be inspiring to help you become more of an athlete. “It’s never too late to work on your balance, stretching or strength,” Dr. Gibson said. Since everyone has a different starting point (you might be struggling to get in and out of your seat while your pal is working on a one-legged yoga pose), it’s something you should talk about with your doctor.
“If you’re noticing limits in your mobility over time, reach out to your Primary Care or Sports Medicine physician. Most doctors are able to recommend simple stretching and balance exercises you can do at home,” said Dr. Gibson.
Loss of balance is a major cause of falls. The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that in one year, there were nearly 3 million Emergency Department visits from older adults (ages 65+) due to falls. Other reasons for falls include medications, poor eye sight and chronic conditions. Wondering if you’re at risk for a fall? The National Council on Aging offers a quick, free online quiz to help you determine your risk.
When it comes to improving your balance, UH offers two, free programs to keep you from falling. Matter of Balance is an 8-week class for seniors interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength. ThinkFirst to Prevent Falls is a one-hour class that highlights fall risks and how to reduce them. To talk with a UH Injury Prevention specialist about bringing either class to your community group, call Kelli at 816-404-1381 or email injuryprevention@uhkc.org.