Improve Your Balance with Physical Therapy
Let Apex Physical Therapy restore your confidence in movement.
Achieving optimal balance is essential for performing everyday tasks and enjoying an active lifestyle. Physical therapy at Apex Physical Therapy offers holistic solutions for individuals struggling with balance disorders. Take the first step towards better balance with physical therapy in Merrillville or Valparaiso, IN today!
Unveiling Common Causes of Balance Disorders
Apex Physical Therapy Empowers Your Journey to Stability
Balance disorders manifest through symptoms such as unsteadiness, dizziness, falls, difficulty walking, and trouble focusing on moving objects. These symptoms often lead to limitations in daily activities, negatively impacting the quality of life.
Approximately 15% of the adult population experiences balance disorders, with a higher prevalence among older adults. Both genders are affected, although women are slightly more prone. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis, are also at a higher risk.
Our skilled physical therapists in Merrillville and Valparaiso, IN treat these common causes of balance disorders:
Vertigo and Dizziness
Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or movement when the body is still. In contrast, dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. Common causes include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, and labyrinthitis, all involving inner ear issues.
Vestibular Disorders
Vestibular disorders occur when the inner ear’s balance system is disrupted. Conditions such as vestibular neuritis or bilateral vestibulopathy can lead to difficulty maintaining balance, dizziness, and unsteadiness.
Neurological Conditions
Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis are some neurological conditions that can cause balance disorders. These conditions can result in impaired coordination, muscle weakness, and sensory deficits, causing loss of balance.
Musculoskeletal Issues
Muscle weakness and joint instability can contribute to balance problems. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, muscle atrophy, or injuries can affect the body’s ability to maintain balance and stability.
Age-Related Balance Decline
As we age, changes in our sensory systems, muscle strength, and reaction time can lead to a decline in balance and an increased risk of falls.
Physical Therapy Can Help You Find Your Independence Again
Physical therapy is a powerful tool if you are experiencing balance problems. Our skilled physical therapists in Merrillville and Valparaiso, IN use a holistic approach to address the root causes of balance disorders and tailor personalized treatment plans to meet each individual’s unique needs.
The first step in helping you find your balance again is thoroughly evaluating your balance loss. Our physical therapists will take the time to understand your medical history, considering any pre-existing conditions, injuries, or medications that could be contributing to your balance problems.
Next, our physical therapists will perform movement screens, including gait analysis, balance, and coordination tests. These assessments help us identify any underlying issues, such as muscle weakness, mobility loss, or sensory deficits, that could affect your ability to maintain stability.
Our team uses a wide range of treatments to help individuals regain their balance and improve overall function. These evidence-based techniques are tailored to each person’s needs and include the following:
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): VRT is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to address balance issues related to inner ear disorders. VRT involves exercises and activities that help retrain the brain to process information more effectively, reducing dizziness, vertigo, and other symptoms.
- Strength and Conditioning Exercises: Weak or imbalanced muscles can contribute to balance problems. Physical therapists will prescribe targeted exercises to strengthen key muscle groups and improve overall stability.
- Gait Training: Gait training focuses on improving walking patterns and minimizing the risk of falls. Physical therapists may use assistive devices, such as canes or walkers, to enhance stability during the retraining process.
- Balance Training Exercises: Physical therapists incorporate balance exercises, such as single-leg stands, tandem walking, or balance board activities, to improve your ability to maintain stability during daily activities.
Our physical therapists are skilled in educating you on strategies to manage your balance problems. We can help you create a safe home environment, using assistive devices, and performing prescribed exercises consistently.
Don’t let balance problems hold you back any longer.
With the help of our skilled physical therapists in Merrillville and Valparaiso, IN, you can regain your stability, confidence, and independence. Reach out to Apex Physical Therapy to schedule your comprehensive balance assessment today!
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!