Which is NOT a fall-prevention strategy used by PTs?

• A. Assess balance and gait
• B. High-intensity treadmill training without supervision
• C. Home safety assessment
• D. Strength training

Answer: (B)

Fall prevention in physical therapy focuses on reducing risk by identifying deficits, strengthening appropriate muscles, and removing hazards in the environment. Assessing balance and gait helps pinpoint instability and gait abnormalities that raise fall risk, guiding targeted interventions like balance training and gait retraining. A home safety assessment addresses environmental factors—such as poor lighting, loose rugs, and clutter—that commonly contribute to falls. Strength training improves lower-extremity muscle power and postural control, enhancing the ability to recover from a stumble and maintain stability.

High-intensity treadmill training without supervision is not considered a fall-prevention strategy because it creates safety concerns and lacks the monitoring and graded progression integral to PT practice. When treadmill or gait activities are used, they are performed under supervision with proper safety measures and appropriate progression, whereas doing vigorous work without oversight does not align with established fall-prevention approaches.