The Balance & Mobility Center at The Rehab Center, made possible by grants from the West and Bridwell Foundations, offers comprehensive evaluation of balance and functional capacity. If appropriate, we can offer computerized dynamic posturography testing with our state-of-the-art Balance Master System.
This system is an effective screening tool used to categorize balance dysfunction into that of inner ear, central nervous system, low back and lower extremities. It is invaluable in determining appropriate intervention for balance problems.
If a problem is detected, we may recommend you ask your doctor to refer you to the Rehab Center for further treatment. An individualized treatment program may include the following:
- Physical and/or occupational therapy to address deficits in sensory and motor area
- Specific exercise protocols for vestibular rehabilitation
- Development of exercise programs for balance training including utilization of visual feedback from the Balance Master System.
- Intensive patient education on deficits, compensatory techniques, and treatment rationale
How do you perform a balance screening?
A balance screening is a quick and easy test performed by a trained balance professional with the aid of a computer. You’ll be asked whether you are taking any medication or have medical issues that could cause balance problems. A therapist will then guide you through a short series of simple balance tests on our computerized force plate. The tests are as easy as standing with your eyes open and then closed on a flat surface, and then standing on a foam pad with your eyes open and closed. The computer measures your physical responses and sway. You’ll be given your results immediately and will also receive a record of the test to give to your primary-care doctor. Staff will also review your results with you and make recommendations based on your needs and the potential for improvement through treatment with a skilled balance specialist.
What does the balance screening detect?
The balance screening identifies people at risk of falling due to inner-ear problems, dizziness/vertigo, visual problems, or somatosensory problems (the feeling and reaction of your feet and hips as you move through space).
Who should have a balance screening?
Anyone who’s experienced dizziness, loss of balance, blurred vision, or multiple falls.
What are the benefits and limitations of the balance screening?
Living with balance and dizziness problems can be debilitating and can interfere with your daily life. It can disrupt sleep, cause you to give up activities you enjoy, produce fatigue and nausea, and put you at risk for falling. But loss of balance is not something you just have to learn to get used to, and getting screened for balance problems can lead to treatment options that can help you reacquire good balance.
Don’t let your balance problems keep you away from your everyday activities. Call (940)322-0771 to schedule your balance screening today!