Balance loss can occur at any age as a result of disease or injury. Balance issues, however, become more common as we age. If you are experiencing imbalance, dizziness, or unsteadiness that makes you feel as if you could fall over at any moment, you may have a balance or gait disorder.
The vestibular system is the most important component of our balance system. In the inner ear, the vestibular system is a delicate collection of fluid-filled chambers and sensory nerves.
If you’ve been having balance problems, contact Total Care Physical Therapy in Hillsborough today, and we’ll work with you to determine the source of your issues and create a personalized treatment plan.
Identifying your balance issues and seeking assistance
How do you know if you need balance assistance? Have you recently had a fall? Do you have dizzy spells when you get out of a chair? We can assist you if you are unsteady and concerned about falling.
What are some simple ways to put yourself to the test at home? Here is a checklist for self-evaluation:
- Stand barefoot next to a counter or other stable support with your hand gently touching the surface.
- Place one foot directly in front of the other (stand heel to toe).
- Gently lift your hand, but keep it close to the surface if you need to catch your balance. Hold this for 10 seconds if safe to do so.
- Try it with your eyes closed.
- Did you feel unstable? Did you lose your balance?
Assume you are concerned about your balance or have recently fallen. In that case, it is critical to seek the assistance of a physical therapist to avoid further injuries in the future. The good news is that most falls are easily avoidable. Physical therapists are trained in the anatomy of the balance system as well as treatments for various conditions that cause balance problems and falls.
Here are some signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing balance issues:
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Inability to focus or remain alert
- Double vision or tunnel vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Arm or leg weakness
- Abnormal eye movements
- Difficulty standing up from a seated position or standing for prolonged periods
- Hearing loss
What is the source of my balance problems?
Some balance issues emerge abruptly, while others develop more subtly and gradually. Instability can be caused by pathology in various parts of your nervous system. Some of the conditions that can cause balance issues are as follows:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
- Meniere’s disease.
- Vestibular neuritis
- Migraines
- Brain injuries
- Stroke
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cardiac conditions
- Peripheral neuropathy
Your treatment plan will be determined by the cause of your balance problems. Your strength, range of motion, balance, coordination, and cognition will all be evaluated during a physical therapy evaluation. Standardized assessments, such as the Timed Up and Go (TUG), will be used to quantify your balance issues and gauge your progress.
Your physical therapy program will include exercises to help you gain strength, improve joint function, and address any balance issues you may have. A home exercise program that you follow to maximize the benefits of your physical therapy sessions will be critical to your recovery.
What is vestibular rehabilitation?
If your balance problems are caused by pathology in your inner ear, vestibular treatment will specifically address that pathology. Manual techniques and sophisticated balance technology can be used by your physical therapist to manage your symptoms. Treatment for balance issues caused by vestibular dysfunction varies by patient, and we will ensure that your program is tailored to your specific requirements.
Are you ready to begin?
At our clinic, we are pleased to say that we can provide you with the best treatment plan for your specific needs, allowing you to resume your normal life!
Are you ready to get back on your feet and reduce your chances of suffering from a balance-related injury? Contact Total Care Physical Therapy in Hillsborough to schedule a consultation and get started on a recovery plan right away!
Sources:
- https://vestibular.org/article/diagnosis-treatment/treatments/vestibular-rehabilitation-therapy-vrt/
- https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-balance-problems
- https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-vertigo
- https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-benign-paroxysmal-positional-vertigo-bppv
