By Christen Geisz, PT, DPT
If you experience dizziness or a spinning sensation, loss of balance, falling or fear of falling, you may have a balance disorder. Balance disorders could lead to falls, injuries and loss of independence. Here are some facts about balance problems and treatment.
Your balance system is complex
Balance is the sensation of where you are in space. Your eyes, your inner ear (vestibular system) and receptors in your joints inform your sense of balance. Balance is also the motor response required to keep you upright, which is controlled by your strength and flexibility.
Balance problems are very common
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 30 percent of people over 65 fall each year.
Balance problems can be caused by many factors
Ear infections, head injuries, Meniere’s disease, immune disorders, certain medications and aging can trigger balance problems, among other causes.
If you’re having balance problems or if you fall, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and review your medical history to help determine a cause. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, you may benefit from balance rehabilitation.
Balance rehabilitation can help
Balance rehabilitation will start with a thorough evaluation by a physical therapist. The evaluation will include assessment of your posture, joint motion and flexibility, muscular strength, and walking and balance assessments.
We now have sophisticated machines to measure and improve your sense of balance. Riverview Health uses a NeuroCom balance machine to help diagnose and treat balance problems. The sensitive machine uses force plates to detect subtle weight shifts or a small loss of balance. A physical therapist can then use the NeuroCom to focus specifically on those areas for treatment.
The NeuroCom balance machine can simulate situations that test and strengthen your sense of balance with visual and sensory stimuli—all in a safe, secure setting that prevents you from actually falling.
Balance rehabilitation is available at Riverview Health Rehab & Fitness by provider referral only. Call Riverview Health Rehab & Fitness in Noblesville at 317.776.7225 today to learn more about balance rehabilitation.