A simple exercise to strengthen your balance muscles, and prevent falls

Stroke can cause weakness in muscle groups that are crucial for proper balance and in this way it can increase your risk of falls. One way to tackle this problem is to try and regain as much lower body strength as possible by exercising with the help of a physical therapist. Unfortunately, physical therapy is not always covered by one's insurance and it might be too expensive to pay out of pocket. A second, always available way to tackle the problem is to perform simple exercises at home with the help of an attendant, or a loved one.

An easy exercise to strengthen the muscles of balance is to stand on one foot while a helper holds both of your hands to prevent you from falling. Do this for about 10 seconds, and then repeat the exercise with the other foot. Repeat the exercise 10 times with each foot. Gradually increase the time you stand on each foot from 10 seconds to 60 seconds over the course of the next several days. This simple exercise will automatically strengthen the very muscles and nerves that are required for good balance. In turn, you will start walking much more confidently, and steadily, thus reducing your risk of falling.

Recommended reading:
If you fall, tell your doctor
Life after stroke
Exercise for Stroke Survivors