Balance Training | Gait Training
Bad falls are a constant worry for seniors and others who have 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 helps you master these skills to decrease your risk of injury while at the same time increasing your confidence and independence.
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, the joint-muscle-nerve system, and, of course, cognitive functions. Therapy that improves gait and balance works with all of these systems to keep them functioning in harmony.
Gait and balance training has a range of benefits, with avoiding injuries being 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, these basic evaluations point us in the direction of what to focus on in terms of 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 your thumb with your eyes as you move it in various positions.
Ready to “balance” your life again?
With our dedicated team of physical therapists behind you, you’ll regain confidence in navigating challenging terrain and learning how to avoid dizzy spells. You may even be able to leave that cane or walker behind! Free Consultation at Toledo, Sylvania, Perrysburg, Maumee & Swanton, OH centers, so you can regain your independence as soon as possible.
Our Approach
Addressing balance and gait disorders involves targeted strategies to improve stability, walking patterns, and overall mobility. Our approach combines assessment and practical techniques to help you regain confidence in daily activities through vestibular rehab in Monroe, Michigan.
- We assess each person’s specific balance and gait challenges to create a plan that addresses unique weaknesses and movement patterns.
- Strengthening exercises target hip and ankle muscles, promoting greater stability during walking and standing.
- Eye tracking and head movements are incorporated to improve coordination and reduce dizziness.
- Step-by-step gait training helps retrain walking patterns, focusing on posture and foot positioning.
- Balance exercises, such as single-leg stands and heel-to-toe walking, are used to restore stability and prevent falls.
FAQs
How can physical therapy help with balance and gait issues?
What causes problems with balance and walking?
Can physical therapy reduce the risk of falls?
What should be expected during a balance and gait evaluation?
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Get Started with Expert Care
Ready to take the first step toward relief and recovery? Request a consultation today to discuss how we can help you achieve your health goals.
