BALANCE AND GAIT DISORDERS

The Difference Between Balance And Gait Disorders

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While there are many similarities between balance and gait impairments, there are also numerous differences. Below is some information about gait abnormalities vs. balance disorders:

 

Balance disorder

Balance problems can be both physical and mental, because your brain may believe you are moving when you aren’t. You may get a sense of falling, stagger when walking, or feel as if you are floating. Blurred vision and dizziness are other typical symptoms. Changes in joint strength, mobility, and proprioception (the capacity to perceive where your joints are in space) all have an impact on your balance.

 

Gait disorders

Gait abnormalities create irregular motions in the way you walk and run, which might become more pronounced as you become older. Strokes, inner ear difficulties, foot ailments, and even something as basic as ill-fitting shoes might trigger them.

 

Reasons For Gait And Balance Disorders

 

Balance and gait problems can arise for a variety of causes. Many balance problems are caused by problems with the vestibular system, which controls your sensation of position, often known as “proprioception.”

 

A problem with your balance or gait might be caused or exacerbated by underlying musculoskeletal and neurological issues. Our Wauwatosa, WI physical therapy clinic can, fortunately, assist you in regaining your balance and correcting your gait.

Some common vestibular conditions resulting in balance disorders include:

 

Neurological issues

There are hundreds of different neurological issues that can result in balance and gait problems. They may include Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, or stroke.

 

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV occurs when calcium debris breaks off in the inner ear, causing issues with balance.

 

Injuries and ailments

Even if your brain and neurological system are in perfect sync, a sudden injury, disease, accident, or other illness that causes muscle weakness can throw your balance off and make it difficult to stay upright.

 

Wisconsin Orthopedic Physical Therapy Can Help You Find Relief

 

The most effective treatment for balance and gait issues is physical therapy. When you come in for your first appointment at Wisconsin Orthopedic Physical Therapy, our physical therapist will perform a thorough physical examination of your balance, gait, stance, medical history, and symptoms before developing a unique treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Your treatment plan for your balance or gait disorder may include the following exercises and treatment methods:

 

Gait retraining exercises

Sometimes, abnormalities in gait can be corrected through “retraining” where you learn proper techniques. Runners can benefit from this kind of therapy technique as well.

 

Vestibular rehabilitation

If you are living with a balance or gait disorder, our physical therapist will provide you with specific exercises that will move the calcium debris to the correct parts of your ear. This physical therapy treatment works to improve your vision, nerves, muscles, and the vestibular system as a whole, to maintain a steady balance.

 

Stretches

Stretching will help improve your flexibility and your range of motion and give you more control and quicker reactions to your movements. They will keep your muscles from becoming too tight and stiff, and reduce your risk of injury.

 

Strengthening exercises

Your physical therapy evaluation will help determine what problem areas in your body may need strengthening. Our physical therapist will provide you with strengthening exercises that will build up your muscles, thus making it much easier for you to move around and reduce your risk of injury.

 

Ready To Find Relief For Your Balance Or Gait Disorder?

 

Balance and gait problems do not have to rule your life. Our physical therapists in Wauwatosa, WI can teach you the best techniques for improving your balance and walking ability. It is critical to seek assistance if you are having trouble staying steady, as you do not want to fall and injure yourself! Request an appointment at Wisconsin Orthopedic Physical Therapy by clicking HERE today.