Balance problems can occur in people of all ages, though older adults are at a higher risk. According to John’s Hopkins Medicine, more than 25% percent of older adults (age 65 and older) have a fall each year. Balance problems happen when a person has trouble staying upright and stable. Balance problems can present in many ways, depending on the individual and degree of severity.
Though balance problems and falls pose a serious risk, there are many ways to help mitigate fall risk and encourage improved balance. Physical therapy is one method of treating balance problems, which entails specialized exercises to help each patient, depending on their specific needs.
What types of medical conditions cause balance problems?
A variety of different medical conditions can increase a person’s likelihood to fall or impair balance. These include:
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Stroke
- Vision or Hearing Issues
- Arthritis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Diabetes
- Brain Injury
- Low Blood Pressure
- Certain medications
The medical conditions listed above are just a few contributing factors to balance problems. If you’re experiencing noticeable balance issues or frequent falls, it is important to speak promptly to a medical professional.
How can physical therapy help?
Physical therapy for balance and fall prevention can significantly help patients experiencing a loss of balance. Physical therapy for balance is also known as gait treatment. A physical therapist will begin with a full assessment of your medical conditions and abilities. Then, they will tailor an individual exercise plan to help target your areas that need improvement.
Reduce Fall Risk
Physical therapy can help improve balance and decrease your risk of falling. Preventing falls before they occur is essential! To decrease fall risk, physical therapists work with patients to assess potential hazards, like poorly fitted shoes or problems throughout your home with uneven surfaces. Many household hazards exist that patients are often unaware of, such as loose rugs, dim, or dark lighting, and more.
Physical therapy can help improve balance and decrease your risk of falling. Preventing falls before they occur is essential! To decrease fall risk, physical therapists work with patients to assess potential hazards, like poorly fitted shoes or problems throughout your home with uneven surfaces. Many household hazards exist that patients are often unaware of, such as loose rugs, dim, or dark lighting, and more.
Improve Balance
Physical therapy can help patients improve their balance. A physical therapist will create specialized exercises to help work on your areas of weakness. Exercises for static and dynamic balance will help you improve your overall balance in time. Over time, your therapist will continually adapt your exercise plan to keep your balance improving.
Strengthen Muscles
Some physical therapy exercises will help patients address areas where their muscles may be weakened.
Improving your overall muscle strength can contribute to improved balance and a decreased risk of falls. These physical therapy exercises might include lightweight training, trunk or core training, and other specialized exercises.
To summarize
Balance issues can be frightening and worrisome, especially for adults. However, working with a physical therapist can help! Limit fall risk, improve balance, and strengthen your muscles by getting started with a specialized physical therapy plan.
