Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford signed a proclamation Tuesday declaring the month of October Physical Therapy Month in Troy.

Lunsford said the practice of physical therapy involves a variety of aspects, from injury prevention to general health and fitness to rehabilitation following injury, disease or surgery.

“The practice of physical therapy helps improve the quality of life and physical well being of people of all ages, including people with neurological problems, children, athletes and the elderly,” Lunsford said.

Through physical therapy practice, education and research, physical therapists are able to promote health, reduce pain and enhance the quality of life; therefore, Lunsford said it is appropriate that the Troy community recognizes these individuals.

“Physical therapists dedicate their time and talent to caring for the physical health of the citizens of Troy,” he said. “We, as citizens, should extend our appreciation to them for making Troy a healthier place to live, work and raise a family.”

In honor of National Physical Therapy Month, Troy Regional Medical Center is offering free balance screenings to adults ages 65 and older who have not been diagnosed with any balance, vestibular or neurological disorders.

Tracey Rhodes, administrative specialist, Encore Rehabilitation, Inc. TRMC, said the free screenings are available from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“All senior adults ages 65 and older are eligible but need to call the physical therapy department at 334-670-5435 to schedule an appointment,” Rhodes said. “The results from the balance screen will be faxed to the individual’s doctor. Those who participate will also be given a Home Safety Checklist that will be helpful in identifying the areas of their homes that could cause falls and other mishaps that come with aging.”

Rhodes said that about 30 percent of adults over age 65 fall each year.

“More than 20 to 30 percent of the falls in older adults lead to serious injuries, such a fractures and head injuries,” she said. “Balance-related falls account for more than half of the accidental deaths in the elderly.”

For those reasons, Rhodes said it is important for senior adults to have balance screenings and to be aware of areas in their homes that could cause them to lose their balance and fall.