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Balance Physical Therapy Treatment in Garland, TX

Bad falls are a constant worry for seniors and others with physical challenges. And those worries aren’t unfounded. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths and serious health problems in the U.S.

Improving your walking skills — technically known as your “gait” — and your balance are interrelated challenges. At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers - Garland, we help you master these skills to decrease your risk of injury, while at the same time increasing your confidence and independence.

How Do You Know You Have Balance Problems?

Falling is a primary symptom of balance problems. However, other symptoms might indicate you have balance problems. These symptoms include;

  • Dizziness
  • A floating sensation
  • Blurred vision
  • Feeling of lightheadedness

What Are The Benefits Of Gait Training and Balance Therapy in Garland, TX?

Balance and gait are inextricably linked because they tend to impact one another. Even if you don’t think you’re in danger of falling over, that “running out of steam” while walking that you’re attributing to aging muscles could be something else. The problem might actually be slowing reflexes, which make moving around seem more strenuous than it is. By the same token, poor posture and gait can throw off those reflexes.

In fact, the balance and gait systems both rely to some extent on a complex number of body systems that include the inner ear, the eyes, the joint-muscle-nerve system, and of course, cognitive functions. Therapy that improves gait and balance works with all of these systems to keep them functioning in harmony.

Gait and balance training has a range of benefits, with avoiding injuries being at the top of the list. Beyond lessening your chances of falling or feeling dizzy, you’re also more likely to feel confident with your footing. In addition, those aches and pains from poor posture are likely to decrease as well.

Balance Therapy in Garland, TX

What Does Balance Physical Therapy Treatment In Garland, TX, Entail?

Physical therapy for balance problems in Garland, TX, is not one size fits all. Your physical therapist will create a customized treatment plan to treat your condition. Generally, balance therapy treatment in Garland, TX, involves the following;

Assessment and Evaluation Programs

First, we’ll evaluate your gait to determine potential problems with strength and posture. Simple movements to test balance are also part of the assessment. Together, these basic evaluations point us toward what to focus on regarding therapy.

Hip and ankle weakness often leads to balance problems, as does poor posture. Strength and flexibility movements can help counteract these problems. These are often as simple as leg lifts while seated in a chair or “knee marching.” We may also practice standing on one leg, walking heel-to-toe, or tracking the movement of your thumb with your eyes as you move it in various positions.

As your treatment progresses, we will monitor how well you are responding to the treatment and make adequate changes.

Gait Training and Balance Programs

This program can improve your ability to stand and walk. If you have recently suffered an illness or injury affecting your ability to move around independently, this program may suit you. Our physical therapists may recommend assistive devices like canes, crutches, and walkers. 

You may also undergo a range of motion exercises to help you regain the use of your joints. As your treatment progresses, your physical therapist may have you stepping over obstacles to improve your gait.

Fall Prevention and Balance Retraining

This treatment program includes exercises to improve endurance, strength, and flexibility. Consequently, your risk of falling will reduce gradually. Exercises like “lunges” and “standing heel raises” can strengthen your legs. We may also recommend “backward walking” and “side-stepping” to improve strength.

Manual Therapy

Your physical therapist in Garland, TX, will use their bare hands to manipulate your soft tissue and joints. Tense muscles can affect your posture and balance. This treatment may be ideal if your balance issue results from tensed muscles.

Vestibular Rehab

Vestibular rehabilitation addresses symptoms caused by vestibular disorders. These disorders primarily affect your inner ear and can cause dizziness and vertigo. You may undergo this treatment if your balance problems result from a vestibular disorder. 

Vestibular rehabilitation typically consists of exercises that may increase your symptoms. However, as you progress through the treatment, these symptoms will decrease and become more manageable. In many cases, the symptoms resolve.

Functional Training

Functional training involves a series of strength training exercises. This treatment can be especially beneficial for your daily life. It prepares you for daily activities like bending, lifting, pushing, and pulling.

How Are We Different From Others For Balance Therapy Treatment In Garland, TX?

At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers - Garland, our therapists realize how important balance and walking are for independent living, as well as for work activities, exercise, sports, and enjoying life in general. That’s why we provide a range of programs and therapies to evaluate and treat balance disorders.

With our dedicated team of physical therapists behind you, you’ll regain confidence in navigating challenging terrain and learning how to avoid dizzy spells. You may even be able to leave that cane or walker behind!

FAQs

What Is Balance Therapy?

Balance therapy is a popular physical therapy treatment for addressing balance issues. This treatment, known as vestibular rehabilitation, focuses on disorders affecting your balance. Your physical therapist will recommend treatments like exercises, positioning procedures, and dietary changes to treat your condition.

Is There Physical Therapy For Balance?

Yes, physical therapy for balance is also known as vestibular rehabilitation therapy. Your physical therapist will tailor this treatment to your condition to alleviate your symptoms. You may undergo techniques like gait training and gaze stabilization exercises during treatment.

What Therapy Is Best For Balance?

Physical therapy is best for treating balance disorders. This form of treatment does not require the use of drugs or surgery. It is also tailored to you and targets the underlying cause of your balance problems.