A loss of balance or tendency to fall can result in injury or a loss of confidence in and outside of the home. As Cole Devoss, PT, Parkview Outpatient Therapy, Parkview Health, explains, this is not a typical part of aging. There are things individuals can do, including outpatient therapy, to lessen the risk and regain their independence.
Who can benefit?
Falls, in any circumstance, are not “normal”. Physical therapy can benefit anyone experiencing balance issues, which can be a result of a recently diagnosed stroke, traumatic brain injury, concussion, neuropathy or other neurologic issue, or vestibular disorders (such as vertigo).
What does physical therapy entail?
Neurological diagnoses can be very debilitating, both physically and emotionally. Through outpatient therapy, we aim to assess, address and work toward improving overall physical function to allow you to perform activities that you may have stopped due to a fear of falling.
We use an evidence-based approach along with a large variety of balance assessments to target what is leading to your impaired balance. After your initial assessment, your therapist will develop a plan of care to help you reach your goals.
In treatment sessions, we focus on static/dynamic balance, strengthening, gait training, endurance training and functional mobility training. We will work on your weaknesses while fine-tuning your skills to help get you back to performing your regular activities. Our goal is to help you return to, or get as close as possible, to your prior level of function. Through physical therapy, we can improve your balance, walking ability (gait), strength, endurance and functional mobility.
Where is this therapy available?
Parkview provides multiple outpatient locations for patients experiencing impaired balance, strength, gait, endurance and functional mobility. If you are experiencing weakness or have concerns about your balance, call 260-266-4080 to learn more.
