Balance Therapy

What are the Benefits of Balance and Gait Training?

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.

What does Balance and Gait Training Entail?

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 in the direction of what to focus on in terms of 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.

At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers, 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:

• Assessment and Evaluation Programs
• Difficulty Walking
• Gait Training and Balance Programs
• Fall Prevention and Balance Retraining
• Manual Therapy
• Fitness and Wellness Programs
• Vestibular Rehab
• Functional Training

Functioning daily can be difficult if you have balance problems. The specialists at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Hermitage, TN, evaluate and treat the underlying causes of imbalance, dizziness, and falls. Based on the results of your initial assessment, your physical therapist prescribes customized exercises and treatments to reduce symptoms, restore your confidence, and return to the activities you enjoy in your life.

Physical Therapy for Balance Problems

Balance problems make it hard to maintain a stable posture and stay upright to stand, walk, or even sit. Balance issues are more common as we age and are one of the most common reasons seniors seek medical attention.
When balance problems do not receive treatment, people fall. Falls can have devastating consequences.
Physical therapists help people of all ages improve balance. With balance testing, your PT at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Hermitage, TN, develops a treatment plan specifically for you. This plan helps you improve your strength, flexibility, stability, and movement.
Our physical therapists are movement experts, improving quality of life with hands-on, customized care.

Ready to “balance” your life again?
With our dedicated team of physical therapists at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Hermitage, TN, 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!