Are you struggling with maintaining your balance? Do you often feel dizzy or unsteady on your feet? A balance disorder is a condition characterized by disturbances in a person’s equilibrium or sense of balance. This can manifest as dizziness, vertigo (a sensation of spinning or motion), unsteadiness, or a feeling of floating or lightheadedness. Balance disorders can be caused by various factors, including problems with the inner ear, brain, sensory nerves, or musculoskeletal system. Fortunately, vestibular exercises and working with trained physical therapists can help you regain stability and confidence in your movements.
Call our team at Complete Physical Rehabilitation today if you have any questions or would like to be evaluated for a balance disorder. Working with our team provides a comprehensive and personalized approach to overcoming a balance disorder.
Benefits of Vestibular Exercises for Balance Disorders
Vestibular exercises can offer a multitude of benefits for individuals struggling with balance disorders.
Balance
- Vestibular exercises help strengthen the vestibular system, enhancing your ability to maintain balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls.
Coordination
- These exercises also improve coordination, allowing for smoother and more controlled movements.
Reduced Dizziness
- Individuals experiencing dizziness or vertigo often find relief through vestibular exercises, as they help recalibrate the vestibular system and reduce symptoms.
Increased Confidence
- As your balance and coordination improve, you’ll feel more confident in your daily activities, reducing anxiety associated with movement.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms and balance disorder you are experiencing, incorporating vestibular exercises into your routine can lead to improvements in overall quality of life and symptoms.
3 Vestibular Exercises That Can Help with Balance Disorders
These exercises are designed to help alleviate the symptoms of balance disorders, however, it is crucial that you consult with our team at Complete Physical Rehabilitation before beginning any new exercises. Our team can properly evaluate your symptoms and condition to tailor a personalized treatment plan to you and ensure any vestibular exercises you perform are done correctly. Working with our team not only provides personalization of your journey, but can also help you find more permanent relief from your balance disorder.
* Vestibular exercises should be guided by a trained physical therapist.
1. Brandt-Daroff Exercises
- Sit on the edge of your bed or a chair with your feet hanging off the edge. Turn your head to the left as far as is comfortable, keeping your head turned, lie down on your right side. Stay in this position for about 30 seconds, or until the spinning sensation subsides. Return to the seated position and wait for 30 seconds before repeating the exercise on the other side (turning your head to the right, and lying down to the left). Aim to perform 5 repetitions on each side.
2. Gaze Stabilization Exercises
- Find a stationary object to focus on, such as a picture on the wall or a spot on the floor. Keeping your eyes on the object, slowly move your head from side to side, tracking the object with your eyes. Next, move your head up and down while maintaining focus on the object. Repeat this exercise for 1–2 minutes, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable.
3. Balance Board Exercises
- Stand on a balance board or unstable surface with your feet hip-width apart and knees slightly bent. Engage your core muscles to maintain balance as the board shifts beneath you. Start by holding onto a stable surface for support if needed, then progress to balancing without assistance. Aim to hold the position for 30–60 seconds, then rest and repeat for 2–3 sets.
Remember, while these exercises can be beneficial for balance disorders, it’s essential that they are guided by a trained physical therapist to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the exercises. Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and support you on your journey to improved balance and well-being.
Start Your Journey to Better Balance Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a balance disorder, don’t hesitate to seek help from a physical therapist. Vestibular exercises can make a significant difference in your quality of life, helping you regain stability, confidence, and independence.
Call us to learn more about vestibular exercises and discover if vestibular therapy is right for you. Your journey to better balance starts here.