Dizziness and imbalance are among the most common complaints that cause patients to seek help from their doctor. In fact, 40% of adults experience dizziness or imbalance at some point in their life, which can result in a loss of functional independence.

Balance problems affect about 9% of people ages 65 and older. Imbalance can result in falls, and is a leading cause of institutionalization in the senior population resulting in over five million patient visits per year.  Given their frequency and consequences, falls can be as serious a health problem for older persons as heart attacks and strokes.

As people get older, the likelihood of experiencing dizziness and falls increases. Falls can lead to injury, hospitalization, surgery and even permanent disability. In 2000, falls among senior individuals accounted for 10,200 deaths and 1,600,000 emergency department visits!

Balance and dizziness disorders are common problems many people struggle with throughout their lifetime. Often we hear people say, “There is nothing that will improve my balance or dizziness,” or, “impaired balance and dizziness are a part of aging.” It is important to dispel these statements and to inform people of ways to prevent and treat balance and dizziness disorders.

In January 2011, the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) and the British Geriatric Society (BGS) updated their guidelines on preventing falls in older persons and have published a summary of the new recommendations in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. All healthcare practices for older adults should include fall screening and prevention, with new assessments involving feet and footwear, fear of falling, and ability to carry out daily living activities. The article emphasizes the importance of an exercise component for fall prevention, especially strengthening.  To see a summary of their recommendations, click here: 

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/735768

There are many different causes of balance loss and dizziness. The majority of these conditions are treatable if you are given the proper education, exercises and treatment techniques. The first and perhaps the most crucial step is to get properly evaluated by your doctor, audiologist or physical therapist to determine the major cause or causes of your balance or dizziness problems. Each medical professional has a series of specialized clinical and functional tests that help to zero-in on what systems are involved and need further treatment or correction.

Your Physical Therapist Can Help

Your physical therapist will work in conjunction with your doctor and audiologist in order to develop a plan of care that best meets your needs. The physical therapy evaluation will consist of range of motion, strength testing, balance and dizziness tests, as well as functional testing. Upon completion of the evaluation, eye and head exercises will be introduced, along with specific balance activities and functional re-training of daily activities.

In most cases, the sooner therapy begins, the sooner you will improve your dizziness and imbalance, which will allow you to return to your normal daily routine and activities. A person should not ignore the signs and symptoms of balance or dizziness disorders. Find out why you are having a decrease in overall function and see your doctor, audiologist or physical therapist as soon as possible.  

Avante Physical Therapy is Ready to Help You with Your Balance Problems

The physical therapists at Avante Physical Therapy have experienced success working with individuals diagnosed with balance and vestibular disorders, as well as those who are at risk.

We will not only develop an individualized exercise program appropriate for you, but also educate you on posture, movement and safety to help prevent falls.

The patient and therapist work together to understand the ways to treat balance and vestibular problems.

Physical therapy, combined with a home exercise program developed by the trained staff at Avante Physical Therapy, will assist you in reducing your risk and facilitate your return to an active lifestyle.

Therapists at Avante Physical Therapy are skilled in helping you to develop a program that will help you to relieve your symptoms.