What is a balance disorder?
A balance disorder is a condition that makes you feel dizzy or unsteady. Gait and balance disorders are common in older adults and a common cause of falls that lead to injuries.
Your gait refers to your ability to maintain balance while you walk. Though walking with balance may seem instinctual, it’s a complex process that relies on many body systems working together, including your eyes, ears, brain, muscles, and nerves.
A gait and balance disorder may occur if you have a problem with one of these systems. Common conditions that contribute to gait and balance disorders include:
- Muscle weakness
- Vision changes
- Chronic health conditions
- Nerve damage
- Problems with the vestibular system in your ear
- Cognitive changes
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In most cases, a gait and balance disorder is multifactorial, developing from a combination of factors.
Who needs a balance disorder assessment?
Crom Rehabilitation recommends that anyone who is worried about their sense of balance or concerns of falling would benefit from a balance disorder assessment. They also recommend you schedule an evaluation if you or someone you love has had an unexpected fall.
Older adults also benefit from a balance disorder assessment, especially those who may tire out easily when walking from their car to the entryway or walking up a flight of stairs.
What happens during a balance disorder assessment?
The specifics of your balance disorder assessment at Crom Rehabilitation depend on your health needs and goals. Your physical therapist conducts a comprehensive initial assessment at your first visit.
During your assessment, they review your medical history and assess your muscle strength and balance. They also evaluate your gait, looking at your stance, posture, and foot movements, as well as areas of instability.
After your evaluation, your physical therapist develops your functional goals and treatment plan.
How are gait and balance disorders treated?
The Crom Rehabilitation team customizes your gait and balance disorder treatment plan based on your diagnosis, gait assessment, and functional goals. Your plan may include:
- In-office or virtual physical therapy
- Aquatic therapy
- Home exercise program
- Change in footwear
- Orthotics
- Use of assistive devices
Your physical therapist works one-on-one with you to improve your muscle strength and balance and help you reach your functional goals and reduce your risk of falls.
To schedule a balance disorder assessment at Crom Rehabilitation, call the office or book an appointment online today.
We offer physical therapy for ACL repairs, rotator cuff repairs, joint replacements, and other orthopedic surgeries. We also treat neck and low back pain and more. Call to book your appointment today.
