Balance & Gait Issues
Physical Therapy in Upper Arlington, OH Can Help You Recover From a Balance and Gait Issues
We've all encountered that unsettling feeling of dizziness at some point in our lives. It's an experience no one enjoys, making us feel as though the ground beneath us is unstable. Unfortunately, this sensation is all too familiar to individuals dealing with balance and gait disorders.
If you often find yourself feeling dizzy and unsteady, relying on walls, railings, or other objects to maintain your balance while moving, or struggling to maintain your equilibrium, it's possible that you may be dealing with a balance or gait issue that requires attention.
Don't hesitate to schedule a physical therapy appointment with our Upper Arlington, OH office today. Our specialized services for balance and gait disorders at FYZICAL Upper Arlington are designed to enhance your overall quality of life.
Distinguishing Between Balance and Gait Disorders
Balance and gait disorders are often misunderstood, but it's essential to recognize their distinct characteristics.
Gait Disorders:
Gait abnormalities refer to irregularities in your walking and running patterns. These irregular motions may become more noticeable with age and can be exacerbated by various factors such as strokes, inner ear problems, foot issues, or even improperly fitting shoes.
Balance Disorders:
Balance issues encompass both physical and mental aspects, as they can involve the brain perceiving movement when there is none. When walking, you may experience sensations of falling or stumbling, along with symptoms like dizziness and blurred vision. Changes in joint strength, mobility, and proprioception (the body's ability to sense movement, action, and position) can all contribute to balance problems.
Causes of Balance and Gait Disorders:
Numerous factors can contribute to the development of balance and gait disorders. Many of these issues stem from dysfunction in the vestibular system, which controls your sense of position and proprioception.
Furthermore, underlying musculoskeletal and neurological problems can either lead to or worsen balance and gait issues. Fortunately, our Upper Arlington, OH physical therapy clinic is equipped to help you regain your balance and improve your gait.
The following are some examples of common vestibular conditions that cause balance issues:
- BBPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo): BPPV occurs when calcium debris in the inner ear breaks off, causing balance problems.
- Neurological Problems: There are hundreds of different neurological conditions that can cause balance and gait problems. Parkinson’s disease, a brain injury, or a stroke are all possibilities.
- Injuries and Illness: Even if your brain and nervous system are perfectly coordinated, a sudden injury, disease, accident, or other illness-causing muscle weakness can throw your balance off, making it difficult to stay upright.
Physical Therapy for Balance and Gait Disorders in Upper Arlington, OH, and the Greater Columbus Area
When it comes to addressing balance and gait disorders, physical therapy stands out as the most effective treatment option. At FYZICAL Upper Arlington, our expert physical therapists are dedicated to helping you regain your stability and improve your gait.
During your initial visit, our skilled physical therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment that covers various aspects, including your balance, gait, posture, medical history, and the symptoms you're experiencing. This thorough evaluation serves as the foundation for creating a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to your unique needs.
Your treatment plan may encompass a range of therapeutic modalities, including:
- Vestibular Rehabilitation: If you have a balance or gait disorder, our Upper Arlington, OH physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to help move the calcium debris to the appropriate parts of your ear. Vestibular therapy works to improve your vision, nerves, muscles, and the vestibular system as a whole to help you maintain a steady balance.
- Gait retraining exercises: Retraining is the process of learning proper movement techniques, which can sometimes correct gait abnormalities. Runners, in particular, can benefit from this type of therapy.
- Stretches: Stretching will help you improve your flexibility and range of motion. It will also give you more control and allow you to respond to your movements faster. Stretching prevents your muscles from becoming overly tight and stiff, which reduces your risk of injury.
- Strengthening exercises: The areas of your body that need to be strengthened will be determined during your initial evaluation. You will learn muscle-building exercises that will make moving around much easier and reduce your risk of injury.
Ready get back on your feet and Love Your Life? Contact FYZICAL Upper Arlington to find relief from a balance and gait disorder!
You don’t have to put up with balance and gait problems. Our Upper Arlington, OH physical therapists can show you the most effective methods for improving your balance and walking skills. If you are having trouble staying steady, it is critical that you seek assistance because you do not want to fall and injure yourself. Make an appointment with FYZICAL Upper Arlington today to unlock the relief you’ve been looking for.
