Balance and Gait Disorders

Balance and Gait Disorders

Balance is the ability of the body to maintain its center of gravity i.e.- stay upright and not fall. Gait is a person’s way of walking. Walking involves balance and coordination of muscles so that body is propelled forward in a rhythm.

Impairments of balance and gait suggest an increase in risks of falls. Falls are the leading cause of accidental death in the elderly population with more than 11,000 deaths as a result of falls each year and hip fractures being the leading fall-related injury that causes prolonged hospitalization

What are the common causes of balance and gait disorders?

Most balance disorders are interconnected to issues in the vestibular system and musculoskeletal and neurological disorders which can lead to or aggravate balance or gait problems.

Common causes of Gait and balance problems are

• Fractures

• Arthritis

• Vision Disturbances

• Problems with the Inner Ear

• Neurological Disorders, especially Cerebellar Disorders (Area of the Brain that Controls Balance and Coordination)

• Vertigo

How can one identify a balance or gait disorder?

Common signs of gait and balance disorders include

• Unsteadiness or Swaying While Walking or Standing

• Difficulty Rising from a Seated Position, Walking

• A Slowed Walking Pace

• Dizziness

• Light-Headedness

• Vertigo

• Motion Sickness

• Double Vision

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

At FLEXITUDE, our physiotherapists will conduct a comprehensive physical evaluation to examine your balance (static and dynamic) which consists of various tests and questionnaires (Berg Balance Scale), gait, medical history, and symptoms, neurological examination of nerves, before creating a personalized treatment plan for you.

Stretches, Gait retraining exercises, vestibular rehabilitation, and resistive exercises are usually prescribed, which are useful for maintaining and improving balance. Assistive devices and modifications at home and the workplace will be suggested for fall prevention. Call +91 730 688 5927 to schedule a consultation at any of the FLEXITUDE Physio branches.

FAQ_s

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