Seeing Your Doctor Before Beginning Vestibular Balance Rehabilitation
by Sasha Meyer
If you are having a difficult time with balance and are feeling dizzy, you might need physical therapy to improve on this issue. Becoming dizzy can cause you to become a fall risk. If you're not sure if you are a fall risk, consult with your doctor.
Most falls do not lead to a serious injury, but some falls will lead to serious injury or death. Falls are often seen as a normal part of aging, but they don't have to be. With prevention screening with your doctor, you can determine if you are at risk of a fall and can also participate in vestibular balance rehabilitation.
The Importance of Seeing Your Doctor
Your doctor will be able to have you perform a quick balance exercise to determine if you have a difficult time balancing. You might be asked to stand in tandem or to stand on one foot. Your doctor will usually ask questions such as whether you feel unsteady when you are standing and whether or not you have fallen in the last year. After your doctor determines if there is something wrong with your sense of balance, he or she will be able to prescribe the proper remedies.
Improving Your Balance Through Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy
You'll be able to improve your balance through vestibular rehabilitation therapy. The therapy is able to alleviate both primary and secondary effects of vestibular disorders. It is a type of exercise program that is designed to reduce vertigo, gaze instability, and imbalance. Progressive fitness programs reduce stress and increase energy. Low-impact exercises are usually the best option, especially exercises that are developed by physical therapists.
The Results You Can Expect
Vestibular system damage is usually permanent. However, those who have suffered from vestibular system damage can recover their balance and other deficits through compensation. Some are able to compensate naturally, over time. Others may find that they continue to struggle to compensate, but with work from a medical professional, it will be much easier to do so.
Customizing Your Exercises
You will need to have exercises created that are customized to meet the specific requirements you have. For example, if you are feeling dizzy because of visual stimulation, you'll need a different approach than if you are dizzy when you make quick head movements. If you feel more dizzy when you are in a visually stimulating environment, you will need habituation treatment.
Speak with your doctor to learn more about vestibular therapy.
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About Me
It wasn't until three of my close family members were diagnosed with cancer that I started taking my personal health seriously. Between the heart problems, the diabetes and now the cancer that runs strong in my family, I know that I don't have much of a future to look forward to unless I start taking care of myself today. How do you do your best to stay healthy? What kind of diet should you follow? How much exercise do you really need? How often should you see a doctor? This blog will help you find the answers to these and many more questions about your health.