Introduction
Most people tend to take for granted the gift of balance, the ability to maintain our equilibrium so that we may move and interact with the world around us. Unfortunately, as one's age increases, so does the risk of developing balance disorders and the potential for falls. Falls can drastically decrease the quality of life, leaving many elderly individuals feeling panicked, insecure, and dependent on others. Fortunately, physical therapy can play a huge role in improving balance and preventing falls.
Benefits of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective tool for addressing balance issues and preventing falls. It is an excellent way to increase joint range of motion and flexibility, strengthen a patient's muscles, and increase balance control. By helping patients to improve strength and stamina, physical therapy can help them to coordinate their movements and perform activities of daily living more safely and effectively. Not only can physical therapy help to prevent falls, but it can also help to reduce pain, improve physical function, and even improve one's overall wellbeing.
Types of Physical Therapy
The type of physical therapy that is most appropriate for each individual patient depends largely on the specific causes of their balance disorder. Some of the most common types of physical therapy used to address balance disorders and falls include:
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Gait Training: This type of therapy consists of learning and practicing proper walking technique, balance exercises, and joint mobility. Gait training can help improve a patient's coordination, balance, and ability to safely transition from one activity to another.
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Strength Training: Strength training exercises specifically targeted to the areas of the body that are most impacted by the balance disorder help to improve a patient's flexibility, balance, and range of motion. Exercises to improve strength may include use of hand-held weights, exercise bands, or suspension systems.
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Balance Exercises: Balance exercises are designed to help patients improve their balance control, posture, body control and coordination. These exercises typically focus on using one sided activities to improve balance, as well as activities that require the patient to move their eyes, head, and arms in various directions.
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Neuromuscular Re-Education: This type of therapy is designed to help a patient regain their balance and coordination by training their neuromuscular system to more efficiently control their body's movements.
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Vibration Therapy: This type of therapy typically uses vibration on the skin to stimulate sensory receptors and help the patient to focus on maintaining their balance and coordination.
Risks of Falling
Falls can have significant negative impacts on the health of an individual. Not only can falls cause severe physical injury, but they can also result in a feeling of insecurity and fear. This can lead to depression, anxiety and isolation. Additionally, when an elderly patient experiences a fall, they may become too fearful of falling again and become less active, leading to further physical and mental health issues, such as decreased cognitive function and mobility.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy can be a life-changing and potentially life-saving tool for those with balance disorders and falls. It is a safe and effective method for improving strength, balance and coordination, helping to prevent falls and improve quality of life. By improving strength, joint range of motion, flexibility, and balance control, physical therapy can help to restore a patient's confidence and independence.
When engaging in physical therapy, it is important to be consistent with your practice. Regular and frequent physical therapy sessions with a qualified physical therapist can help ensure that you're getting the most out of your physical therapy program. Your physical therapist will be able to tailor a program specifically to your individual needs and goals to ensure that you are making progress over time.
Final Thoughts
Falls and balance disorders can have significant impacts on the health and wellbeing of an individual. Physical therapy can be a powerful tool in helping to prevent falls and maintain an independent lifestyle. It is an excellent way to increase joint range of motion and flexibility, strengthen muscles, and improve balance control. By consistently engaging in physical therapy, you can make progress and reduce the risk of falls.