Services

Balance & Fall Prevention

Balance

Balance problems and fear of falling can cause significant disruptions in your daily life. Balance is an essential part of every day life activities such as walking, getting up from a chair, negotiating stairs, getting out of your car and bending over to put on your shoes. It is crucial to maintain good balance to allow independence with daily living.

Chicago Rehabilitation Services assists in the treatment of patients with balance problems associated with dizziness/vertigo, musculoskeletal disorders, neurologic, and orthopedic conditions.

How your Balance System works

Balance is controlled by three sensory systems that work together to maintain equilibrium:

1. Visual: Your eyes tell the brain how your body is oriented in relation to walls, floors, and other nearby objects.
2. Vestibular: Fluid-filled canals in your ear act much like a carpenters level, sending warnings to the brain when you are off balance.
3. Somatosensory: Specialized nerve cells in your muscles and joints sense the position of your arms, legs, and other body parts.

How Physical Therapy can benefit you

• We have the equipment and skilled training to reeducate your body and brain by challenging the three sensory systems that control your balance.
• We also work on a comprehensive rehabilitation program including strengthening and addressing flexibility restrictions, which may contribute to instability.
• We can also incorporate and train you to use an assistive device if needed.

Goals of Physical Therapy

• To reduce symptoms and improve stability to allow for you to be independent with daily activities.
• We strive to reduce your risk of falling to prevent further injury which will restrict your mobility.
• GOOD BALANCE = INDEPENDENCE!

Helpful Hints for Fall Prevention

• Secure down or reduce amount of rugs throughout the home.
• Keep your house well lit, especially at night.
• Reduce clutter in the home.
• Wear sensible shoes.
• Use assistive devices as needed.
• Keep moving!