Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Balance and Fall Prevention Training Program

We provide extensive, individualized assessments to determine the cause(s) of decreased balance and increased risk of falling. Posture, balance, strength, coordination, and function are addressed. Patients with osteoporosis are particularly good candidates for the program because the risk of fracture due to a fall is high.

Our physical therapist then develops a customized balance retraining, conditioning, and educational program. Throughout the treatment process, we conduct periodic reassessments to monitor improvement.

Treatment consists of strengthening key muscle groups, improving balance reactions and integrating vision-sensation-vestibular information. Plus, we help you deal with balance challenges in various environments, such as areas with curbs, uneven surfaces, dim lighting conditions, and changes in direction.

Our approach gives patients the tools to regain control of their lives, rebuild self esteem, and prevent falls.

What is Balance?

Balance is defined as maintaining the center of gravity over the center of mass.

Balance depends on the central nervous system and our ability to integrate input from the inner ear, eyes, muscles and sensations of the lower extremities.

Each year 1/3 of adults over age 65 experience dizziness, balance problems or falls. Since five percent of all falls lead to fractures, falls are the leading cause of fracture and injury in older adults. Fractures in order adults can be disabling.

These factors alone or in combination can cause you to lose your balance:

• Vestibular and inner ear disorders. These may cause intermittent or constant dizziness.
• Neurological problems. These include multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, head injury, spinal cord injury, amputation, and neuropathy.
• Orthopaedic injuries or procedures such as spine injuries or total joint replacement.
• Decreased strength and flexibility secondary to inactivity. These factors can decrease the sense of balance and affect balance reactions.
• Medications may cause dizziness or disequilibrium.