When was the last time you had your balance checked? No matter what age you are, your balance can always be improved – in fact, even those who do not live with a balance or gait disorder cans still suffer from balance-related injuries that occur from poor posture or reflexes.
However, if you frequently notice an imbalance, dizziness, or unsteadiness that makes you feel as if you may fall over at any given time, it is a sign that you may be living with a balance or gait disorder. Balance disorders, and balance issues in general, all stem from the vestibular system.
The vestibular system is a delicate collection of fluid-filled chambers and sensory nerves located in the inner ear. Your vestibular system helps manage your “proprioception,” or sense of position, and when this is altered, it can be difficult to keep yourself steady. If you have been noticing issues with your balance, contact Hands-On Physical Therapy today so we can help you figure out the root of your problem and treat it accordingly.
What’s causing my dizziness and balance issues?
If you are frequently feeling dizzy and losing your balance, you are not alone. According to the Centers For Disease Control (CDC), over 2.5 million adults were treated for nonfatal injuries in emergency departments in 2013. There are several factors that can impact your balance. Just a few include:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
- Meniere’s disease.
- Vestibular neuritis.
- Migraines.
- Poor posture.
- Injury or ailment.
- Neurological issues, such as brain injuries, stroke, or Parkinson’s disease.
How do I know if it’s time to see a physical therapist?
In older adults, falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries. Most people don’t think about keeping their balance in shape until it is too late and they suffer a harsh fall. The good news is that most falls can easily be prevented, simply by the regular exercising of your balance system. If you have recently sustained a balance-related injury, it is important to seek the help of a physical therapist immediately, in order to avoid additional injuries in the future.
It is important to note that you should also contact a physical therapist if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Dizziness or vertigo (“spinning” sensations, even when remaining still).
- Inability to focus or remain alert.
- Double vision or tunnel vision.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Arm or leg weakness.
- Abnormal eye movements.
- Difficulty standing up from a seated position or standing for prolonged periods of time.
Get started on the first steps of your treatment plan today!
When you arrive at Hands-On Physical Therapy, your physical therapist will walk you through a comprehensive exam in order to gauge the nature of your condition and figure out the best course of treatment for your needs. The make-up of your treatment plan will be dependent upon the origin of your balance issue.
Whatever the case may be, all treatment plans will contain targeted balance exercises and stretches to help improve your core, vestibular system, and overall proprioception. Depending on your condition, vestibular rehabilitation and videonystagmography may also be included in your treatment plan.
Are you ready to get back on your feet and regain your balance once again? Contact Hands-On Physical Therapy in Astoria, NY, to schedule an appointment and get started today!