FIGHT THE FALL
What’s causing my balance issues? There are several factors that can impact your balance. Just a few include: • Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). • Meniere’s disease. • Vestibular neuritis. • Migraines. • Poor posture. • Injury or ailment. • Neurological issues, such as brain injuries, stroke, or Parkinson’s disease. The make-up of your treatment plan will be dependent upon the origin of your balance issue. When you arrive at FYZICAL, your physical therapist will walk you through a comprehensive exam in order to gauge the nature of your condition and figure out the best course of treatment for your needs. Whatever the casemay be, all treatment plans will contain targetedbalance exercises and stretches to help improve your core, vestibular system, and overall proprioception. Dependingon your condition, vestibular rehabilitation and videonystagmography may also be included in your treatment plan. Are you ready to get back on your feet and decrease your risk of sustaining a balance-related injury? Contact FYZICAL to schedule a Free Fall Risk Assessment and get started today! BALANCE PATIENT SUCCESS STORY
Whenwas the last time you had your balance checked?Nomatter what age you are, your balance can always be improved - in fact, even those who do not live with a balance or gait disorder can still suffer from balance-related injuries that occur frompoor posture or reflexes. However, if you frequently notice an imbalance, dizziness, or unsteadiness that makes you feel as if you may fall over at any given time, it is a sign that you may be living with a balance or gait disorder. Balance disorders, and balance issues in general, all stem from the vestibular system. The vestibular system is a delicate collection of fluid-filled chambers and sensory nerves located in the inner ear. Your vestibular systemhelpsmanage your “proprioception,” or sense of position, and when this is altered, it can be difficult to keep yourself steady. If you have been noticing issues with your balance, contact FYZICAL today sowe can help you figure out the root of your problem and treat it accordingly. How can I tell if I need to improve my balance? It can sometimes be difficult to determine if your balance is in need of improvement. The simple test below may be an indicator that you should seek physical therapy intervention: • Stand barefoot next to a counter, sink, or chair with your hand gently grasping the counter surface. • Put one foot directly in front of the other, so that one heel is touching the opposite toes. • Gently lift your hand up, but keep it close to the counter in case you need to grab it quickly. Try to hold this for 10 seconds (only do this if you feel safe or have someone nearby to help you). • Now try it with your eyes closed. •Do youwobble or lose your balance? Thismeans your balance needs work. According to theCenters For DiseaseControl (CDC), over 2.5million adults were treated for nonfatal injuries in emergency departments in 2013. In older adults, falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries. Most people don’t think about keeping their balance in shape until it is too late and they suffer a harsh fall. The good news is that most falls can easily be prevented, simply by the regular exercising of your balance system. If you have recently sustained a balance-related injury, it is important to seek the help of a physical therapist immediately, in order to avoid additional injuries in the future. It is important to note that you should also contact a physical therapist if you have any of the following symptoms: • Dizziness or vertigo (“spinning” sensations, even when remaining still).
“I feel more secure on my feet!” “When I first came I was walking with a cane which I never had to use before. I was suffering from dizziness and light-headedness. It kept me from being able to complete my everyday chores. I had to hold on to walls jut to make it to the other side of the house. Unfortunately, I had two falls before I started therapy here. Now, (after just 5 physical therapy visits), I feel so much better. No more dizziness. I feel more secure on my feet. I don’t use the cane as much, only outside. My balance is so much better. I still work at home with balance. I am very grateful for all the help I received.” - Fran S. (continue reading more about this patient’s case in the next page) Dominique Betancis (Enrolled in Physical Therapy Program at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences), Fran Stokes (FYZICAL Patient), Justin Valdez PT, DPT (Balance Program Director).
• Inability to focus or remain alert. • Double vision or tunnel vision.
• Nausea or vomiting. • Arm or leg weakness. • Abnormal eye movements. • Difficulty standing up from a seated position or standing for prolonged periods of time.
SCHEDULE A FREE FALL RISK ASSESSMENT TODAY! RECEIVE A FREE 15-MINUTE VIRTUAL CONSULT FOLLOWING YOUR ASSESSMENT NORTHEAST OFFICE
EAST OFFICE 8111 N. Loop
WEST SIDE OFFICE 4646 N. Mesa El Paso, TX 79912 P: (915) 313-6331 F: (915) 533-9672
JOE BATTLE OFFICE 2270 Joe Battle Blvd
4758 Loma Del Sur El Paso, TX 79934 P: (915) 755-0738 F: (915) 593-5187
El Paso, TX 79907 P: (915) 593-4985 F: (915) 593-5187
El Paso, TX 79938 P: (915) 855-7780 F: (915) 855-7781
www.fyzical.com/northeast-el-paso www.fyzical.com/east-el-paso www.fyzical.com/west-el-paso/ www.fyzical.com/joe-battle-el-paso
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