One brief exerpt from the NPF pamphlet FITNESS COUNTS (p34) on ..
BETTER BALANCE
RETROPULSION refers to the tendency to fall backward caused by a decrease
in one's postural righting reflex. It is a common feature of Parkinson's
disease, and is most likely to occur when someone is:
Reaching overhead.
Opening doors that pull toward you.
Carrying objects against the front of your body.
Stepping backward to move away from a counter.
Backing up to sit down in a chair.
COMPENSATION TECHNIQUES INCLUDE:
Place one hand on a wall, counter or other stable object while using
the other hand to reach for the desired shelf object.
Avoid using step stools and ladders.
Install a small vertical grab bar near the door frame of any heavy doors.
Turn to one side and lift knees in a marching sequence to move away
from counters and sinks, rather than backing away.
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Sid Roberts 69/4 Youngstown,Ohio
