Services

Balance & Gait Therapy

Bad falls are a constant worry for seniors and others with physical challenges. And those worries aren’t unfounded. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths and serious health problems in the U.S.

Improving your walking skills — technically known as your “gait” — and your balance are interrelated challenges. Physical therapy for balance helps you master these skills to Physical Therapy And Rehabilitation decrease your risk of injury while at the same time increasing your confidence and independence.

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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, Neck Strain Treatment the joint-muscle-nerve system, and of course, cognitive functions. Gait training physical therapy works with all these systems to keep them functioning in harmony.

Gait and balance therapy exercises have many benefits, with avoiding injuries 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, Foot And Ankle Pain these basic evaluations point us toward what to focus on regarding 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 our thumb with our eyes as we move it in various positions.

Ready to “balance” your life again?

With our dedicated physical therapist team behind you, you’ll regain confidence in navigating challenging terrain and learning to avoid dizzy spells. You may even be able to leave that cane or walker behind!

Visit us today at Sterling, VA Center for balance exercises/physical therapy consultation so you can regain your independence as soon as possible.