Balance Training

Physiotherapist assists patient while doing an exercise on a fitness ball.Med1Care Therapy Partner’s physical therapists specialize in providing in-home balance training. Balance issues may be indicated by trouble getting up from a seated position, feeling wobbly getting in and out of the shower or having a hard time hauling groceries up a flight of stairs.

Balance issues make the possibility of incurring injuries in a fall far more likely. These injuries often result in the loss of independence.

Physical therapy is key to increasing mobility, strength and balance.

Reasons for loss of balance

Many issues can contribute to balance problems, including weakening of leg and core muscles, injury, poor posture and illness.

Core muscles around the trunk impact all day-to-day activities. Leg strength doesn’t matter if core muscles can’t support their movement. Without strong core muscles, balance is at risk.

Balance is primarily coordinated by three systems:

  • The vestibular system is made up of many delicate pieces of bone and cartilage, including the ear’s semicircular canals, which are filled with fluid. As body position changes and the fluid moves, the ear’s sensory system sends information about balance to the brain.
  • The proprioceptive system is made up of sensory nerves in muscles tendons and joints that send spatial awareness signals to the nervous system, including a sense of your body posture or kinesthetics.
  • The visual system sends messages from the eyes to the brain about your surroundings and relationship to them.

How We Can Help

Med1Care Therapy Partner’s experienced therapists are trained in treating balance.Your treatment plan will include exercises that strengthen the muscles that help you stand, so you can improve stability and lower the risk of falls. You may also receive support choosing and using an assistive device that will help you maintain your mobility and quality of life. Supplements and medications may also be recommended to improve bone health and reduce the risk of breakage during a fall. We will partner with your physician to help you build a road to recovery.

A licensed physical therapist will come to your home in Toledo, Findlay or any of the 26 counties we service. The therapist will evaluate your need for services, draft a plan and set a schedule that is dedicated to you reaching your objectives.

Call us at 419.866.0555 to schedule a consultation.
Our specialists will help you chart a course forward.

Senior woman doing balance exercises.Balance exercises strengthen the muscles in your core and legs to improve your stability and prevent falls.

Here are six balance exercises to add to your fitness routine:

  • Stand on one leg and raise the other to the front, side and back
  • Walk an imaginary tightrope, heal to toe
  • Sit in a chair and stand without using your hands for assistance
  • Alternate knee lifts while walking
  • Practice yoga or tai chi
  • Stand on a Bosu half-circle stability ball or balance board

When these no longer present a challenge, hold the position for longer, add movement to a pose or close your eyes.

Young woman doing core strengthening exercises.Progressive no-impact strength-building exercise is important to include in your regime two days a week.

Areas to focus on:

  • Core, including abs
  • Legs, including squats
  • Glutes
  • Back muscles

Read more about balance training here.

Man doing situps.Balance training is one of the best ways to strengthen your core and reduce the pain of health conditions like back pain, arthritis and diabetes.