Balance function is derived from sensory input and motor output.
When there is a deficiency in the capabilities of these functions, people can experience difficulty maintaining stable positions while standing, walking or sitting. In any of these instances, balance therapy can help significantly reduce or resolve these issues.
MANY ISSUES WITH BALANCE ARE OFTEN THE RESULT OF:
- Orthopaedic injury to the lower extremities
- Stiff joints
- Aging
- Vestibular disorders
- Neurological disorders
- Sedentary lifestyles
- Some Medications
- Weak muscles
For those with any of the above ailments, it’s common to experience higher instances of dizziness, imbalance, tripping, falling and stumbling.
Treatment Options
Vestibular therapy is a highly specialized therapy that treats individuals suffering from vertigo, dizziness, visual disturbance, and/or imbalance. Nausea, vomiting, decreased concentration, and fatigue can also develop secondary to vestibular disorders. These symptoms can diminish quality of life, impact all aspects of daily living, and affect emotional well-being.
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of therapy designed to alleviate both the primary and secondary problems caused by vestibular disorders. It is an exercise-based program primarily designed to reduce vertigo and dizziness, gaze instability, and/or imbalance and falls.
Christie Hudson, PT, DPT is one of the few Physical Therapists in the area to undergo advanced post-graduate training to obtain her Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency Certificate. She is dedicated to assisting these specialized patients back to maximum function through customized treatments and exercise programs. Patient compliance with a home exercise program is essential to help achieve rehabilitation and patient goals.
