Balance problems make it hard for people to maintain a stable posture and stay upright when standing, walking, and even sitting. Balance problems are more common in older adults and are the most common reason for seeking professional help.

Physical therapists can help people of all ages improve their balance by performing balance testing and developing treatment plans.  By incorporating physical activity in treatments physical therapists can help improve people’s strength, stability, and movement.

Physical therapists may prescribe some of the following active movement techniques and physical exercises to improve these systems:

• Position awareness
• Visual tracking
• Inner ear retraining
• Vestibular Therapy Services
• Canalith repositioning/Epley maeuver
• Gaze stabilization exercises

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):  

• One-fourth of Americans aged 65+ fall each year.
• Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. 
• The older adult population is projected to increase by 55% by 2060, hence fall rates and health care spending are projected to rise.
• Falls result in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including over 800,000 hospitalizations. 

Request an appointment today to improve your balance and prevent dangerous falls.