My Mom has had a couple of falls in the past week, one resulting in a sprained ankle. We have noticed that she is leaning back on her heals when she stands up and walks. We have drilled "nose over toes" into her head, so she hunches forward about mid back over her walker, but still leans back on her heels. No matter what direction, encouragement, etc., we give her, it doesn't seem to help. A couple years ago she ended up in a rehab center after a fall, and when they released her, they had physical and occupational therapists coming to her house a couple times a week. Is there a way that we can schedule something like that? How do we do it? Does she need a referral? What is the process?
The following is a little off topic: My mother listed to one side when she walked or stood. Her problem was solved when her podiatrist made her a lift, which fit inside one of her shoes.
You seem to be the daughter we all wish we had, your parents are lucky to have you. Warning, do not wear yourself thin, always make yourself a priority.
Here's one site to get an idea of what mom needs: https://www.walgreens.com/q/walkers+with+seats
I recommend both PT (lower body) and OT (upper body). And when home health calls you to set it up, ask them to start one now and when that one ends, start the other one. This keeps the therapy going longer. If you do both at the same time, you'll get about a month or so of service and then both end. You really have to wait a couple months to get dr to order again.
First the patient wants to do the work.
next the most difficult thing for me was the pain. Obviously you do not want to hurt your loved one. True the pain will subside as they get stronger but that is not now. I’m just frustrated at the system
They provide outpatient therapy in the home that is not considered "Home Health" so they can bill under Medicare Part B. I think they are available in most states. They can tell you what is required to use their services.
Check out: https://www.cms.gov/center/special-topic/jimmo-settlement/faqs
Medicare was challenged about limiting therapy and now in some cases provide unlimited therapy when maintenance is needed. It can be more cost effective for them to try and prevent broken hips.
If there is a specific PT that you want to go to, make sure you tell your Mom’s doctor. Then he can send the referral directly to that person.
Was your Mom taken for imaging after the couple of falls this past week? Are you deciding it is a sprain, or did she go to Urgent Care/ER for xrays? If it wasn't imaged, I wouldn't make any assumptions... it could stilll be fractured. Sprains take a long time to heal.