Getting up from the floor is an invaluable skill to have in your mobility “toolbox”.
First, it offers peace of mind knowing that if you ever find yourself (unintentionally) on the floor, you could help yourself.
Second, getting on the floor (and getting back up) keeps you “limber”. In fact, in some eastern cultures, I dare say the amount of time the elderly spend sitting on the floor (and getting back up) is the key to their longevity.
Third, a prolonged time down (after a fall), can place someone at greater risk for pressure sores, hypothermia, dehydration….etc.
And finally, not getting up from the ground properly, can lead to further injury.
So, needless to say, I am more than a little passionate about sharing the proper and safe technique to stand up from the floor.
Safety Alert:
If you are have fallen, do not attempt this if you feel extreme hip pain. Always try and call for help before attempting to move if you think you have a serious injury. Moving after a fall can cause further injury.
Step One:
Step on is to get into a “side sitting position” with one hand on a higher surface. That higher surface can be a chair, couch, bed…etc. I recommend something that is very sturdy and will not move.
Step Two:
Next you want to pull up to a kneeling position. The more you can lean your body weight onto the higher surface the easier this transition will be.
Step Three:
If you have a weaker side, bring the weaker leg forward into a kneeling position
Step Four:
Push up with your strong arm on the higher surface.
Step Five:
Step the leg that is in the back forward or just pivot your bottom toward the higher surface
And of course, no training is complete without celebrating with your therapist ?
If this technique does not work, here is an alternative technique try: Click Here