Physical Therapy for Balance & Gait Disorders

Physical Therapy for Balance

You may need Physical Therapy for balance & gait disorders. This is sometimes referred to as a vestibular disorder. If you suffer from dizziness or vertigo, you know how debilitating it can be to live a normal life. At Fast Track Physical Therapy, we can provide effective treatment for many different types of vestibular disorders. Our Physical Therapists will guide you through a comprehensive treatment plan to aide in your recovery and will always answer any questions along the way.

Physical Therapy for balance or vestibular disorders includes:

• Vertigo
• Benign Paraxomal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
• Dizziness
• Meniere’s Disease
• Balance Problems
• Gait Disorders
• Concussions

Try Physical therapy for balance disorders. Here’s how it helps:  

Identifying the Root Cause:

A physical therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation to pinpoint the underlying cause of your balance issues. This might involve:

• Vestibular tests: To assess the function of your inner ear, which plays a crucial role in balance.  
• Gait analysis: To observe your walking pattern and identify any abnormalities.  
• Strength and flexibility assessments: To determine if muscle weakness or stiffness is contributing to your balance problems.  
• Sensory assessments: To evaluate how your vision, touch, and proprioception (sense of body position) are functioning

Tailored Exercise Programs:

Based on the assessment, the therapist will create a personalized exercise program that targets your specific needs. This may include:

• Balance exercises: Such as standing on one leg, walking heel-to-toe, or using a balance board.  
• Strength training: To improve muscle strength, particularly in the legs and core.  
• Flexibility exercises: To increase range of motion and improve joint mobility.
• Gait training: To improve walking patterns and coordination.  
• Vestibular rehabilitation exercises: To retrain the brain and inner ear to work together more effectively.  

Improving Coordination and Motor Skills:

Many exercises will focus on improving coordination and motor skills, such as:

• Eye-hand coordination exercises: Such as catching a ball or playing games that require quick movements.  
• Agility drills: To improve quickness and change-of-direction skills.  
• Reactive balance exercises: To improve your ability to respond to unexpected disturbances.  

Fall Prevention Strategies:

The therapist can also provide guidance on fall prevention strategies, such as:

• Home safety assessments: To identify and address potential hazards in your home.  
• Assistive devices: Such as canes or walkers, if necessary.\
• Proper footwear: To ensure good traction and support.
• Environmental modifications: Such as installing grab bars in the bathroom.

Education and Support:

The therapist will educate you about your condition and provide ongoing support and encouragement throughout your recovery process.

Who Can Benefit from Physical Therapy for balance?

People with a wide range of balance disorders can benefit from physical therapy, including:

• Individuals with inner ear problems: Such as vertigo, Meniere’s disease, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).  
• People with neurological conditions: Such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
• Older adults: Who experience age-related declines in balance and coordination.
• Individuals who have undergone surgery: Such as hip or knee replacement surgery.