The Toll of Transfers: Risk of Falls

Alongside the pain, individuals with SCI face another risk: falls during transfers. Whether it's slipping while moving from the wheelchair to the bed or losing balance during a transfer to the toilet, the fear of falling is a constant companion for many. 

Fear of falls has a negative impact on both confidence and ongoing transfers¹

Falls can occur during inpatient rehab

A recent Australian audit² of falls (over 5 year's period) on an inpatient rehabilitation SCI unit reported:

• Nearly 1 in 4 experienced a fall
• One-third had recurrent falls
• Almost 1 in 5 of recurrent falls occurred in the bathroom
• Transfers were the most common activity resulting in a fall.

Falls are potential life-altering events. Repercussions ripple beyond physical harm (e.g. fractures, wounds), often affecting mental well-being. Fear of falls has a negative impact on both confidence and ongoing transfers.¹ 

Shoulder pain amplifies this risk. As the pain intensifies, individuals may involuntarily compensate by altering their movements, throwing off balance and stability. The result? A precarious dance with gravity, where falls lurk at every misstep.