Balance is the ability to maintain stability while performing any physical activity, whether the body is stationary or in motion. The brain receives signals from our eyes, ears, skin, muscles, and joints to help maintain balance. If any of these systems are impaired due to injury or weakened by age, it can cause balance problems, leading to unsteadiness and an increased risk of falls. Balance can also be affected by neurological conditions or low blood pressure.
What Happens If Balance Is Affected?
When balance is compromised, you may experience:
• Dizziness
• A sensation that the room is spinning (vertigo)
• Unsteadiness while standing or walking
• Difficulty walking
• A floating sensation
• Stumbling or falling and being unable to get up immediately
• Blurred vision at times
Balance problems can be temporary, but if they occur frequently, the underlying cause must be identified, as it may be a sign of an underlying health condition.
To help determine whether you should seek medical attention for dizziness or balance issues, ask yourself the following questions. If you answer “yes” to any of them, consult a doctor:
• Do I feel as if the room is spinning around me, even for a brief moment?
• Do I feel as if I’m moving when I know I am sitting or standing still?
• Do I lose my balance and fall?
• Do I feel as if I am falling?
• Do I feel lightheaded or as if I might faint?
• Do I have blurred vision?
• Do I ever feel disoriented—losing my sense of time or location?
• Do I feel unsteady?
How Can a Physiotherapist Help Improve Balance and Prevent Falls?
A physiotherapist plays a crucial role in diagnosing balance issues and determining the cause of falls through various vestibular and coordination tests. Based on the findings, they can develop a treatment plan using specific exercises and movements. Some ways a physiotherapist can help improve balance and prevent falls include:
• Proprioception training –
Exercises that enhance body awareness and movement control.
• Strengthening exercises –
Focusing on the lower body and core muscles, which are essential for maintaining balance and sustaining positions for extended periods.
• Vestibular rehabilitation –
Targeted exercises to improve inner ear function, performed in lying, sitting, or standing positions depending on individual needs.
• Gait training –
Retraining walking patterns to improve stability, coordination, and balance while in motion.
• Flexibility and stretching exercises –
Enhancing the range of motion in joints to support better balance.
• Education and fall prevention strategies –
Providing guidance on simple techniques and home exercises to reduce fall risks.
• Coordination and functional exercises –
Helping patients build confidence and overcome the fear of falling. These exercises should always be performed under supervision and practiced consistently over time to achieve the best results and maintain improvements.
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