If you have been experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance, physical therapy may be able to help. Balance and dizziness physical therapy is a safe, effective treatment option that can improve your overall balance by reestablishing normal vestibular (inner ear) function. Through exercises, manual techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation, and lifestyle modifications, physical therapists can help those suffering from these symptoms reduce their falls and increase control over their condition.
What are Balance and Dizziness?
Balance is your ability to stay upright when standing or walking without falling off-balance or steadying yourself on something else. Dizziness, on the other hand, is a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness that can lead to blurred vision and even fainting. Both balance and dizziness issues can be related to inner ear problems such as vertigo, Meniere’s disease, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), or vestibular neuronitis.
Physical therapy for balance and dizziness focuses on improving overall balance by restoring normal vestibular (inner ear) function. Treatment typically includes exercises to improve strength and coordination as well as manual techniques such as joint and soft tissue mobilization. Depending on the individual’s needs, a physical therapist may also provide education on lifestyle modifications to reduce dizziness or falls.
Common Symptoms Associated with Inner Ear Issues
Common symptoms of inner ear issues can include dizziness, lightheadedness, vertigo, blurred vision, nausea, unsteadiness when walking or standing, and difficulty concentrating. Other signs may include fatigue and a feeling of fullness in the ears. These symptoms can be debilitating and can make everyday activities difficult to perform.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Balance and Dizziness
There are many benefits to balance and dizziness physical therapy. Through exercises, manual techniques, and lifestyle modifications, a physical therapist can help you reduce your risk of falls and improve control over your condition. Physical therapy may also help to increase strength and coordination as well as improve the overall quality of life. Other potential benefits of balance and dizziness physical therapy include improved posture, reduced stress levels, better breathing habits, improved sleep quality, pain reduction in the neck or back, increased flexibility, improved mobility functions such as walking or running, and improved daily activities.
Get Relief from Dizziness through Physical Therapy
Balance and dizziness physical therapy can provide relief from debilitating symptoms as well as improved quality of life. Through careful evaluation and personalized treatment, a physical therapist can help you reduce the risk of falls and improve your balance. In addition to lifestyle modifications, exercises, and manual techniques are used to restore normal vestibular (inner ear) function while promoting greater independence, safety, and improved overall well-being. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to inner ear issues such as vertigo or Meniere’s disease, talk to your doctor about seeking physical therapy for balance and dizziness. With the right care, you can get relief from these challenging conditions.
Components of a Treatment Plan for Balance and Dizziness
A physical therapy treatment plan for balance and dizziness will likely include exercises to improve vestibular function, strength, and flexibility. Balance exercises may involve using a wobble board or standing on one leg. The goal is to retrain the brain to process information from the vestibular system correctly. Strength exercises help to improve muscle control and prevent falls. Flexibility exercises are important for maintaining the range of motion in the neck and shoulders. Stretching the calves, hamstrings, and Achilles tendons can also help to prevent falls. In addition to exercises, a physical therapist may also recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding sudden head movements, wearing low-heeled shoes and sleeping with the head elevated.
Why Choose the Physical Therapy Center of Erie?
At the Physical Therapy Center of Erie, we understand how frustrating and debilitating balance and dizziness problems can be. That’s why we offer comprehensive treatment plans that are tailored to each individual patient. Whether you are dealing with vertigo, vestibular Migraine, or another condition, our experienced therapists will work with you to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life. We offer a variety of therapies, including vestibular rehabilitation, manual therapy, and Balance Training. If you are looking for a physical therapy center that can help you manage your balance and dizziness problems, the Physical Therapy Center of Erie is a perfect choice.