If you have trouble keeping your balance, you’re not alone!!
According to the National Institutes of Health, about 40 percent of adults over age 40 have some degree of balance problems.
Most balance problems can be helped with treatment.
What are the indications for therapy?
There are many reasons why you might need therapy.
Some common indications for therapy include:
- Trouble keeping your balance.
- Having falls or near-falls.
- Fear of falling.
- Loss of confidence when walking or moving around.
- Decreased ability to do activities you enjoy because of balance problems.
- Inner ear problems
- Muscle weakness
- Vision problems
- Certain medications
- Nerve problems
- Problems with your feet or shoes
If you have a balance problem, your doctor will likely recommend one or more of the following:
Balance therapy:
This type of therapy uses exercises to help improve your sense of balance. A physical therapist can design a program specifically for you.
Vestibular rehabilitation:
This type of therapy also uses exercises to help improve your sense of balance. But it’s geared more toward people who have problems with their vestibular system, which controls your sense of balance. A physical therapist can design a program specifically for you.
Balance retraining:
This type of therapy helps you learn to use your senses (sight, touch, and hearing) to help improve your balance. A physical therapist can design a program specifically for you.
Your doctor may also recommend that you:
- Wear supportive shoes:
Make sure your shoes fit well and provide good support. Avoid high heels and flip-flops.
- Use a cane or walker:
If you have trouble walking, using a cane or walker can help you stay steady on your feet.
- Improve your vision:
If you have poor vision, getting new glasses or contact lenses may help you feel more confident on your feet.
- Make your home safer:
Remove throw rugs and other things that can cause you to trip. Install handrails on stairs and in your bathtub or shower.
- Improve your fitness:
Exercise can help improve your balance and coordination. Tai chi is a particularly good form of exercise for people with balance problems.
- Manage your health conditions:
If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other health conditions, be sure to take your medications as prescribed and see your doctor regularly. This will help keep your condition under control and reduce your risk of falling.
What can I expect from therapy?
The goal of therapy is to help you improve your balance and prevent falls. Depending on your particular situation. Your therapist will design a program specifically for you.
The number of sessions you need will depend on the severity of your balance problem. Most people need at least 10-12 sessions. But some people may need more.
Some balance problems can’t be completely cured. But with treatment, most people can improve their sense of balance and prevent falls.
Final Words:
If you have a balance problem, don’t try to tough it out. Balance problems can lead to falls and serious injuries. So if you’re having trouble keeping your balance, be sure to see your doctor.
Balance therapy and vestibular rehabilitation can also help you regain confidence in your ability to move around and do the things you enjoy.
If you live near texas then Austin Phsical therapy specialist we offer balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) to address symptoms caused by vestibular (inner ear) dysfunction. VRT can help you regain your sense of balance and prevent falls.
If you are experiencing any symptom of vestibular dysfunction, please contact us to schedule an appointment.
We will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine the root cause of your symptoms and develop a custom treatment plan to help you regain your sense of balance.
Let’s talk!!
