HuffPost reported on assessing and improving balance to promote healthier aging and prevent falls, featuring insight from James F. Wyss, MD, PT, spine and sports medicine physiatrist at HSS. 

Research shows that if you can’t balance for 10 seconds, you’re at a higher risk of falls, according to Dr. Wyss. And if you can’t hold your balance for five seconds, you are at an even higher fall risk. 

“Lots of times, the focus on preventing a fracture is addressing bone density and strength training. But the greatest way to prevent a fracture is to prevent a fall,” Dr. Wyss said. “Sure, it’s great if you can get your bones stronger through strength training or a medication, but if you don’t fall, you’ve eliminated the risk altogether.”

“It’s 40s, 50s that I start tell people, ‘All right, start incorporating a little more balance training into your routine,’” Dr. Wyss explained.

Read the full article at huffpost.com.