When to Choose Orthopedic Care vs. the ER After a Fall
Falls can be scary. One moment you are walking, and the next you are on the ground. For many older adults, a fall can bring pain, worry, and a lasting fear of falling again. For caregivers, it can bring confusion: Do we rush to the emergency room, or is there another option?
At SportOrtho, we want you to know two important things:
Falls are common, but they are not a normal part of aging.
Many falls — and fall-related injuries — can be treated and prevented with conservative orthopedic care and physical therapy.
This guide will help you understand when to choose orthopedic care vs. the ER, why falls happen, and how you can take control of your safety and confidence.
Why Falls Are So Common — and So Concerning
Falls are the leading cause of injury in adults age 65 and older. Each year, millions of seniors experience a fall. Even when no bones are broken, a fall can shake confidence and limit independence.
Many people believe falling is “just part of getting older.” That is not true. Most falls happen because of treatable problems, such as weakness, balance issues, or unsafe home setups.
The good news? Falls are preventable, and help is available.
Common Causes of Falls in Older Adults
Understanding why falls happen is the first step toward preventing them.
Balance and Strength Changes
As we age, muscles can become weaker, especially in the legs and core. Weak muscles make it harder to catch yourself if you trip or lose balance. Slower reaction times can also increase fall risk.
Medical and Sensory Factors
Several body systems help keep us upright:
Vision: Poor eyesight makes it hard to see obstacles.
The vestibular system: This is the balance system in your inner ear. If it is not working well, you may feel dizzy or unsteady.
Medications: Some medications can cause dizziness, low blood pressure, or sleepiness.
Even small changes in these areas can raise fall risk.
Environmental Hazards
Many falls happen at home. Common hazards include:
Loose rugs or cords
Poor lighting
Slippery floors
Stairs without handrails
After a Fall — Do You Need the ER or Orthopedic Care?
This is one of the most common questions we hear.
Go to the ER Immediately If You Have:
Seek emergency care right away if you or your loved one has:
A head injury or loss of consciousness
Severe pain or a bone that looks out of place
Heavy bleeding that will not stop
Trouble breathing or chest pain
Sudden confusion or weakness
These symptoms can signal a serious or life-threatening problem.
Orthopedic Care Is Often the Right Choice If:
In many cases, orthopedic care — not the ER — is the best next step after a fall. Consider conservative orthopedic care if:
Pain is mild to moderate
You can move but feel sore, stiff, or unstable
Swelling or pain develops over time, not right away
You want to avoid long ER wait times and unnecessary tests
Orthopedic specialists are experts in muscles, joints, and bones. They can diagnose the problem and guide proper healing — often without surgery.
Why Conservative Orthopedic Care Matters After a Fall
At SportOrtho, we focus on conservative (non-surgical) orthopedic care whenever possible. This means:
Careful evaluation and diagnosis
Imaging only when truly needed
A treatment plan focused on healing, movement, and prevention
Many fall-related injuries, such as sprains, strains, joint pain, and balance problems, respond very well to non-surgical treatment.
The Role of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often the most important part of recovery after a fall. A physical therapist does more than treat pain. They address the root causes of the fall.
Physical therapy can:
Improve strength and balance
Reduce stiffness and pain
Restore safe walking patterns
Build confidence and reduce fear of falling
How Physical Therapy Helps Prevent Future Falls
Fall prevention is not about being careful — it is about being prepared.
Balance Training
Therapists use safe, guided exercises to train your body to react quickly and stay steady.
Strength Exercises
Stronger legs and hips mean better support and safer movement.
Walking (Gait) Assessment
Therapists look at how you walk and correct patterns that increase fall risk.
Home Safety Education
You may receive simple tips to make your home safer, such as better lighting or removing trip hazards.
With the right plan, many people feel stronger and more confident within weeks.
How SportOrtho Supports Safe, Confident Movement
SportOrtho brings together orthopedic expertise and physical therapy in one conservative care model. We take the time to listen, evaluate, and guide you toward the safest solution.
Our approach is:
Non-surgical whenever possible
Personalized to your needs and goals
Focused on independence and quality of life
We work with both seniors and caregivers, providing clear answers and compassionate care.
Taking the First Step Toward Fall Prevention
If you or your loved one has fallen — or feels unsteady — do not wait for another fall to happen. Early care can make a real difference.
Knowing when to choose orthopedic care vs. the ER can save time, reduce stress, and lead to better outcomes.
Falls are not inevitable. Strength, balance, and confidence can be rebuilt.
Worried About a Fall or Feeling Unsteady?
Contact SportOrtho to schedule an evaluation with our orthopedic and physical therapy team. We are here to help you move safely, confidently, and without unnecessary surgery.
