<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Balanec Awareness Week Archives - WWSPT.Com</title> <atom:link href="https://wwspt.com/category/balanec-awareness-week/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://wwspt.com/category/balanec-awareness-week/</link> <description>Healing, Function, Recovery, Health</description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 22 Sep 2023 14:27:48 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">215146180</site> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – Biodex Balance System</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-biodex-balance-system/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-biodex-balance-system/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cassie Zanolini, PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Sep 2023 03:25:04 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Biodex Computerized Balance System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stability limits]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4228</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Biodex Balance System is a state-of-the-art computerized balance system used to evaluate and train postural balance. The user stands on a platform that objectively measures and records where the person’s weight is centered while displaying visual feedback on a screen of how they shift their weight or sway. The patient’s balance can be tested […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-biodex-balance-system/">Balance Awareness Week – Biodex Balance System</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Biodex Balance System is a state-of-the-art computerized balance system used to evaluate and train postural balance. The user stands on a platform that objectively measures and records where the person’s weight is centered while displaying visual feedback on a screen of how they shift their weight or sway.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">The patient’s balance can be tested on different surfaces or with eyes open or closed. </span></p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Biodexgrid.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This system allows our therapists to identify a potential balance problem in just two minutes of testing by comparing balance test results to age-dependent normative data. Once identified, patients can participate in a training program to correct functional deficits in their balance. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Visual feedback can help patients learn how to perform more effective weight shifts. The Biodex can also measure and train a person’s stability limits, or how far they can move their center of mass while maintaining balance over their feet. The platform can become dynamic and move in any direction for increased challenge. This test can even be used with athletes to see how well they can balance and support themselves on one leg at a time.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Biodex can treat older adults with balance issues, those recovering from concussion, and even athletes following orthopedic injury. One of the things that patients like most about Biodex is that they get measurable feedback about how they did, so training on it becomes almost like a game!</span></p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Cassie Newman, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-biodex-balance-system/">Balance Awareness Week – Biodex Balance System</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-biodex-balance-system/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4228</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – Obstacle Courses for Balance Training at WWSPT</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-obstacle-courses-for-balance-training-at-wwspt/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-obstacle-courses-for-balance-training-at-wwspt/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Karli Lynch PT, DPT,]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Sep 2023 03:06:50 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balance Training]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buttons]]></category> <category><![CDATA[hurdles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[obstacle course]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[River rocks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[single-leg balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4219</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Balance training can be fun! One activity we love to use with our patients is an obstacle course that we can create to address someone’s specific needs. For instance, some people have difficulty walking across their yard, on the beach, or in their garden due to the uneven or soft surfaces. We use many different […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-obstacle-courses-for-balance-training-at-wwspt/">Balance Awareness Week – Obstacle Courses for Balance Training at WWSPT</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Balance training can be fun! One activity we love to use with our patients is an obstacle course that we can create to address someone’s specific needs. For instance, some people have difficulty walking across their yard, on the beach, or in their garden due to the uneven or soft surfaces. We use many different pieces of equipment to assemble an obstacle course and simulate these challenging surfaces. Some of our favorites include river rocks, buttons, and hurdles.</span></p> <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/IMG_1582.png" alt="" width="525" height="700" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">River rocks are exactly what they sound like. They are shaped like rocks or stones of various heights. Part of the rock has a flat surface, and the other parts are slanted. Stepping on the slanted surface makes it difficult to maintain balance, so the key is stepping on the flat surface. Buttons are small circular objects that squish when stepped on, like stepping on a tuft of grass. Reacting to the change in the surface being stepped on is important to maintain balance. The hurdles challenge single-leg balance and the ability to step over objects. We have two different-sized hurdles that provide appropriate challenges to our patients.</span></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/IMG_1571-2.png" alt="" width="525" height="700" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Obstacle courses aren’t just for young ones. They are a fun and creative way for adults to work on their balance. If you feel more unsteady or off balance, call us, and one of our physical therapists at WWSPT will be happy to address your needs and build your confidence in your balance.</span></p> <p>Dr. Karli Lynch, PT, DPT<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-obstacle-courses-for-balance-training-at-wwspt/">Balance Awareness Week – Obstacle Courses for Balance Training at WWSPT</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-obstacle-courses-for-balance-training-at-wwspt/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4219</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – The Balancing Stick</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-the-balancing-stick/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-the-balancing-stick/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:44:28 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balance Stick]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Drishti]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Yoga]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4216</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>I consider myself a yogi, (a person who has practiced yoga with intention). I practice yoga because it calms my mind, strengthens my muscles, and improves my balance. As we age, we need to work on our balance. Certain tasks, such as practicing single-leg balancing, are easy to work on daily. My favorite balance poses […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-the-balancing-stick/">Balance Awareness Week – The Balancing Stick</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I consider myself a <em><strong>yogi,</strong></em> (a person who has practiced yoga with intention). I practice yoga because it calms my mind, strengthens my muscles, and improves my balance.</p> <p>As we age, we need to work on our balance. Certain tasks, such as practicing single-leg balancing, are easy to work on daily.</p> <p>My favorite balance poses for my patients is called the <strong>balancing stick</strong>.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/balancing-stick-copy.png" alt="" width="800" height="624" /></p> <p>Shift your weight to your right foot and grip the floor with your toes; this is called <strong>grounding</strong>. It helps all the leg muscles engage. Stare at a point in front of you, or in yoga, called a Drishti, to help stabilize.</p> <p>Lift your left foot, point your toe forward about 30° angle from your hip, and hold this position for 10 seconds gripping the floor.</p> <p>Then, step forward onto your left foot, grounding with the floor, lift your right foot backward about the same 30° angle, and lean forward, staring at your Drishti; hold this position for 10 seconds, tighten your core, grip the floor, and raise your arms forward.</p> <p>Repeat, starting with your left foot first. Work up to 30 seconds, and then you can progress leaning forward with your body. It works all your muscles while you hold your balance. Try it!</p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald PT OCS<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>University of Delaware</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-the-balancing-stick/">Balance Awareness Week – The Balancing Stick</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-the-balancing-stick/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4216</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – Aging Well Tips From Wendy</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-aging-well-tips-from-wendy/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-aging-well-tips-from-wendy/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:27:13 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[aging process]]></category> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brain Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[injury prevention]]></category> <category><![CDATA[movement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[muscles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[physical activity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[squats]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Yoga]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4213</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>To age well and maintain my balance, I work several activities into my daily routine. I love Yoga! It includes a lot of single-leg balancing postures, inverted postures good for blood pressure, and many strengthening Poses. However, I realize this is not for everyone! Here are some of my simple exercise activities: I practice deep […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-aging-well-tips-from-wendy/">Balance Awareness Week – Aging Well Tips From Wendy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>To age well and maintain my balance, I work several activities into my daily routine.</p> <p>I love Yoga! It includes a lot of single-leg balancing postures, inverted postures good for blood pressure, and many strengthening Poses. However, I realize this is not for everyone!</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Yoga-focus.jpg" alt="" width="801" height="500" /></p> <p>Here are some of my simple exercise activities:</p> <p>I practice deep squats to a frog position when I need to get down on the floor with patients or when gardening, and then stand back up. It uses full hip and knee mobility and maintains the strength of my quadriceps and glutes.</p> <p>I climb up the steps two at a time, using a railing occasionally; this strengthens the legs. I believe we get weaker when we move into one-level homes. All steps build our muscles! Make sure you use a rail on the way down!</p> <p>I walk on curbs or on lines when possible for balance, acting like the flying Valencia’s on the tightrope.</p> <p>Remember, it’s the little things that keep us going!!</p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-aging-well-tips-from-wendy/">Balance Awareness Week – Aging Well Tips From Wendy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-aging-well-tips-from-wendy/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4213</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – BlazePods</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-blaze-pods/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-blaze-pods/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Gregory Synnestvedt PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:30:43 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BlazePods]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reaction time]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4200</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The BlazePods are seven palm-sized pods that can light up different colors and be turned off with a tap on the pod. Also referred to affectionately as “the lights” by some of our therapists and patients, these little pods can be programmed to light up in different ways to create several fun and unique balance […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-blaze-pods/">Balance Awareness Week – BlazePods</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The BlazePods are seven palm-sized pods that can light up different colors and be turned off with a tap on the pod. Also referred to affectionately as “the lights” by some of our therapists and patients, these little pods can be programmed to light up in different ways to create several fun and unique balance games working on reaction time, decision-making, and introducing a cognitive task to a balanced workout.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/What-is-the-Blazepod.png" alt="" width="800" height="570" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We like to put the pods in a semicircle for the most basic setup. The pods light up randomly, and the person has to tap their foot on the pod to turn it off while trying to turn off as many pods as possible in 30 seconds or 1 minute. It’s like whack-a-mole with your feet! We will move some pods onto higher surfaces for increased challenge, even putting some pods on the wall you must hit with your hand. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For patients working on dizziness and certain vestibular issues, we like to put pods up high, down low, and even on surfaces behind them, making them hit the pods with their hands. This is a good way to work on rapid turning and bending motions to reduce dizziness and improve balance with these motions.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We sometimes spread the pods across the gym floor for athletes and more active participants, simulating quick reactions and sudden decision-making in sports.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re looking for a fun way to work on your balance and reaction time, we recommend you try the <strong>BlazePod,</strong> “The Lights,” at WWSPT!</span></p> <p>Dr. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Gregory Synnestvedt PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</span></p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-blaze-pods/">Balance Awareness Week – BlazePods</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-blaze-pods/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4200</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Amanda Nguyen PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 19 Sep 2023 13:54:09 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Infrared Goggles]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4197</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>A problem with the vestibular system or your inner ear system is a possible source of balance issues. This system tells your head how you are oriented in space and sends signals to your brain about how your head moves. To assess this very tiny system, we use infrared goggles.   We use Infrared Goggles […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/">Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A problem with the vestibular system or your inner ear system is a possible source of balance issues. This system tells your head how you are oriented in space and sends signals to your brain about how your head moves. To assess this very tiny system, we use infrared goggles.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We use</span><b> Infrared Goggles</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> when evaluating each person with dizziness or unexplained imbalance. The goggles are an </span><b>essential</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> tool we use to specifically diagnose any vestibular deficits by helping us observe and record your eye movements. Your eyes are a key factor in determining the cause of your balance issue. Sometimes, when you are dizzy or feeling unsteady, your eyes will move in a pattern pointing to a particular inner ear issue, such as decreased vestibular function on one side, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Dr-Greg-Synnestvedt-PT-DPT-using-Insight-Infrared-Video-Googles.png" alt="" width="800" height="600" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Testing with the goggles is relatively simple. We will place the goggles over your eyes, and while it may feel like you are about to enter a virtual reality world, you will be in the dark. Cameras in the goggles send video feedback to our computers, and we can watch your eyes move. From here, we will do different tests and put you in different positions to see how your eyes move and if it provokes any dizziness.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These goggles give us the most accurate information so we can treat the exact issue you are dealing with. While some balance and vestibular issues can be assessed without infrared goggles, the most thorough assessment includes testing with the goggles.</span></p> <p>Dr. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Amanda Nguyen, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> 215 -489-3234 </span></p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/">Balance Awareness Week – Infrared Goggles</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-awareness-week-infrared-goggles/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4197</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Good Balance and Good Health Go Together</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 18 Sep 2023 15:04:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[aging process]]></category> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4193</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>As a Vestibular specialist, many patients ask me how to prevent another vestibular event or a fall. Good balance comes from a healthy vestibular system, visual system, and proper input from sensory nerves and muscles. These systems work together to help us move and react, maintaining good balance. As we age, the vestibular system changes. […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/">Good Balance and Good Health Go Together</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As a Vestibular specialist, many patients ask me how to prevent another vestibular event or a fall. Good balance comes from a healthy vestibular system, visual system, and proper input from sensory nerves and muscles. These systems work together to help us move and react, maintaining good balance.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As we age, the vestibular system changes. The hair cell neurons of the inner ear reduce in number, and the postural organs of the ear, the utricle and saccule, also decline in function. This can affect postural reactions and coordination involved in maintaining balance. Otoconia from the utricle and saccule also become more likely to break loose from these organs, causing benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a condition that we frequently treat in vestibular therapy.</span></p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/BALANCE-IN-AGING.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p><b>How can we slow down the aging process to help our balance?</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Exercise that includes changing surfaces to challenge your muscles and postural reactions and head movement added to exercise to make your vestibular system work harder can all improve your balance. Your vestibular therapist can teach you <em><strong>How</strong></em> to incorporate these into your regular workout.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maintaining good health is important in aging well. Some health issues affect the vestibular system more directly than others. </span><b>Hypertension </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">affects the inner ear since the ear is susceptible to changes in blood flow. The vestibular system’s microcirculation is reduced by hypertension, which can lead to loss of function in the vestibular system. We tend to focus on the circulation to our heart and brain, but issues from reduced blood flow can also occur in the inner ear organ.</span></p> <p><b>Diabetes Mellitus</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> also affects the microcirculation of the inner ear and the peripheral nerves, sometimes causing peripheral neuropathy. Patients with diabetes are 70% more likely to have vestibular and balance deficits, so properly managing your diabetes with exercise and medication is important for good balance.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><em><strong>Exercise</strong></em> has positively affected hypertension, diabetes, circulation, sleep, and many other health factors that impact <em><strong>balance.</strong></em> A physical therapist trained in v<em><strong>estibular rehabilitation</strong></em> can examine how your balance systems are working and help you figure out how to exercise and work on your balance safely.</span></p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/">Good Balance and Good Health Go Together</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/good-balance-and-good-health-go-together/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4193</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Finding the Balance in Your Balance System</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/finding-the-balance-in-your-balance-system/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/finding-the-balance-in-your-balance-system/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jenna McLane PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Sep 2022 14:31:52 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bucks County Womens Journal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[falls]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[joints]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somatosensory System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VeDa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Visual System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3555</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Is it uncomfortable for you to stand still while having an unexpected conversation? Are you looking for something sturdy to rest your hand on? Perhaps you second-guess invitations to picnics or sporting events because walking on the grass is challenging. Maybe you find yourself parking closer and closer to the shopping cart corral so that you […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/finding-the-balance-in-your-balance-system/">Finding the Balance in Your Balance System</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Is it uncomfortable for you to stand still while having an unexpected conversation? Are you looking for something sturdy to rest your hand on? Perhaps you second-guess invitations to picnics or sporting events because walking on the grass is challenging. Maybe you find yourself parking closer and closer to the shopping cart corral so that you have something to lean on to get into the store.</p> <p>These are all typical behaviors reported in our physical therapy clinic. Not all patients come to us because they have vertigo or are spinning. Many people who arrive at our clinic report limiting their social activities and the hobbies they enjoy due to feeling less confident on their feet. Not all have fallen; some just experience stumbling and tripping at times.</p> <p>Balance, your body’s ability to keep your center of mass over your support base, is something we often take for granted until we struggle with it. Physical therapy can be beneficial in restoring your balance when it is compromised.</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Balance-Vision-Propreoceptors-Vestibular--scaled.jpeg" alt="" /></p> <p>Our bodies rely on peripheral feedback systems to give the brain the information it needs to stay upright and avoid falling. The three sensory systems include our vision, proprioception, and vestibular systems.</p> <p>First, let’s discuss the role your vision plays in balance. Your brain relies on this to learn how your body fits in the surrounding environment. For example, if you see people coming toward you or the ground is uneven up ahead, adjust accordingly.</p> <p>Next, you rely on information from your proprioceptors. These are the sensors in your joints, muscles, and skin that provide information to your brain about where your body is in space. Let’s pretend you are walking down a slope right now. Pressure from your shoe against your foot, a stretch to the muscles in front of your lower leg, and a slight bend in your knee inform your brain that you are on a decline. Someone with peripheral neuropathy, an artificial joint, or an injury can have impaired proprioceptive feedback.</p> <p>Lastly, the vestibular system also provides your brain with information about your movement in space. This is found in your ear, beyond the eardrum. The system has five end organs, including the utricle, saccule, and three semicircular canals. The utricle and saccule have small hair cells that detect horizontal and vertical acceleration, such as riding in a car or going up an elevator.</p> <p>The fluid-filled semicircular canals detect rotational movement in different planes. When your head turns, the left and right vestibular systems generate an impulse based on the fluid shift. This impulse travels to the brainstem and directs the appropriate muscular and visual responses that keep you moving smoothly. When both the left and right vestibular systems are healthy and work together, these adjustments are typically not noticed. But people with damage or weakness in one or both vestibular systems may feel unsteady on their feet, dizzy, or disoriented (as if their eyes are bouncing).</p> <p>When patients arrive at WWSPT with complaints of unsteadiness, we look at their whole medical picture. We thoroughly review their history to identify variables that may be influencing their balance. Do they have chronic back pain or diabetes that may impair their sensation? Have they been on medications that may impact the function of their vestibular system? Are they smokers, have they experienced migraines, and have trouble multitasking? These are just a few questions we may ask that are extremely helpful in identifying possible contributing causes to patients’ imbalance.</p> <p>After reviewing their history, we evaluate how they move. Is one hip weaker than the other? Are stairs difficult? Is there a difference when walking on a smooth indoor surface and going outside? Do busy environments suddenly make them reach for support?</p> <p>Next, we thoroughly evaluate their vestibular system and how the vestibular ocular reflex or VOR reflex works. We screen them for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo and evaluate their balance statically and dynamically.</p> <p>First-time patients may feel intimidated by the “strange” exercises they see other patients doing in the gym. Our expertise in balance training allows us to incorporate patients’ individual goals into their therapy. Patients who struggle with talking to their friends while on a walk may be asked to walk, turn their heads, and simultaneously list their weekly grocery items. A hiker, who misses walking in the woods, may find him or herself stepping across our river rocks while wearing a weighted vest. We like to keep it interesting!</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/do-you-suffer-from-Dizziness-.png" alt="" /></p> <p>If you have noticed something doesn’t quite feel right in your movement, do not simply accept imbalance as a part of aging. If left untreated, this could lead to a fall. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in adults over 65. Enhancing your balance system through physical therapy can help you maintain your independence and the quality of life you enjoy. Be your advocate. Please get in touch with WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation, Doylestown, PA., for your balance assessment and treatment plan!</p> <p>Dr. Jenna L. McLane, PT, DPT,</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/finding-the-balance-in-your-balance-system/">Finding the Balance in Your Balance System</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/finding-the-balance-in-your-balance-system/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3555</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Do you suffer from Unsteadiness on your Feet?</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/do-you-suffer-from-unsteadiness-on-your-feet/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/do-you-suffer-from-unsteadiness-on-your-feet/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jenna McLane PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 23 Sep 2021 12:35:05 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3250</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>September 19-25 is the Vestibular Disorder Association’s Balance Awareness Week! Do you suffer from #unsteadiness on your feet? Do you feel like you are on ice skates for the first time? Do you find it difficult to maintain your #balance when walking in an unfamiliar or busy visual environment? Perhaps you notice that mom or […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/do-you-suffer-from-unsteadiness-on-your-feet/">Do you suffer from Unsteadiness on your Feet?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>September 19-25 is the Vestibular Disorder Association’s Balance Awareness Week!</p> <p>Do you suffer from #unsteadiness on your feet? Do you feel like you are on ice skates for the first time? Do you find it difficult to maintain your #balance when walking in an unfamiliar or busy visual environment? Perhaps you notice that mom or dad can’t seem to get from their favorite chair to the kitchen table without reaching for a piece of furniture to steady themselves. If so, this week is dedicated to you!</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/" alt="" /><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Unsteadiness-like-an-Ice-skating-Novice.jpg" alt="" /><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/" alt="" /><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/" alt="" /></p> <p>Our goal this week is to increase the general population’s awareness of how difficult it can be for those with balance disorders to function. Simple tasks such as grocery shopping, stepping up a curb, working in the yard, and getting dressed can all lead to huge challenges for those suffering from balance disorders. The activities that we often do without a second thought often require a great amount of planning and foresight for individuals with balance disorders.</p> <p> </p> <p>This can mean leaving early for an appointment to ensure a parking spot close to a ramp or railing, shopping at odd hours, avoiding certain places with either low or very bright lighting, and purchasing only certain types of clothing that are easy to put on.</p> <p> </p> <p>Balance disorders can really impact someone’s pride. All too often our clients view using an assistive device or asking for help as a sign of aging or weakness that is ok for others but they themselves are not ready to accept. Most of these people express a desire to not be a burden, however many fail to realize that if they have a fall because they don’t address their balance issues that can create an even larger burden for their loved ones and decrease their own independence that they cherish.</p> <p> </p> <p>Our goal at therapy is not to turn your life upside down and change the way you do everything. Our goal is to empower you to achieve the things you enjoy in the safest way possible with greater confidence.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you feel in any way that your balance is compromising your quality of life, do something about it now! Just like when you work a weak muscle, working on your balance can strengthen it and reduce your risk of falling or having an injury. If you find yourself avoiding situations or reaching for furniture everywhere you go then please call us at WWSPT for an evaluation of your balance.</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Jenna McLane, PT, DPt,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> 215-489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/do-you-suffer-from-unsteadiness-on-your-feet/">Do you suffer from Unsteadiness on your Feet?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/do-you-suffer-from-unsteadiness-on-your-feet/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3250</post-id> </item> <item> <title>It is the FIRST DAY OF FALL, But Don’t you Do it!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Cassie Zanolini, PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 22 Sep 2021 17:43:06 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[aging process]]></category> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balanec Awareness Week]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Healthy Aging]]></category> <category><![CDATA[movement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[orthopedic treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[PT Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3245</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Seasons change, and today is AUTUMNAL EQUINOX, the First Day of FALL 2021, but Fall doesn’t mean that you or your loved ones lose your balance and fall!   Balance is a critical component of aging. Many older adults struggle with their stability as the year’s pass. However, it is not normal to suffer from […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/">It is the FIRST DAY OF FALL, But Don’t you Do it!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Seasons change, and today is <strong>AUTUMNAL EQUINOX, </strong>the<strong> First Day of FALL 2021</strong>, but Fall doesn’t mean that you or your loved ones lose your balance and fall!</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Fall-is-Not-for-FALLS.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Balance </strong>is a critical component of aging. Many older adults struggle with their stability as the year’s pass. However, it is not normal to suffer from falls.</p> <p> </p> <p>As we age our joints become stiffer, limiting our range of motion. Sensory changes in our feet can occur, resulting in difficulty detecting the surface that we’re on. Muscle strength may diminish and reaction time decreases. Visual changes can cause difficulty picking up on environmental safety risks. All of these changes contribute to changes in our stability.</p> <p> </p> <p>Injuries that occur as a result of falls can contribute to decreased activity level, limited mobility, and increased fear of falling. One fall can create a vicious cycle. The good news is that with therapy and other interventions falls can be prevented.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Increase Strength</strong></p> <p>Choose a form of exercise that challenges your muscles. Without challenge, there is no change, which means no strength gains. Ideally, we want to strengthen muscles that play a large role in balance and stabilization.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Regular Exercise</strong></p> <p>A regular exercise pattern can help to facilitate improved strength, flexibility, and range of motion to minimize deficits that might occur with aging.</p> <p> </p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/keep-moving.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p><strong>Proper Footwear</strong></p> <p>Ensure that footwear is secure and does not slip off your feet. Check the soles for wear. Shoes with good tread help to provide better traction and minimize risk of falls.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Home Environment </strong></p> <p>Be sure to clear any clutter from high traffic areas. Tuck away any cords or wires. Remove or secure any area rugs, as they may pose a tripping hazard. Install nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms to ensure safety when getting up in the middle of the night.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you have difficulty implementing a strength program of your own at home or are concerned about your balance with these activities, then we recommend that you come in for an evaluation by one of our therapists. In the clinic, the therapist will evaluate you and develop a treatment plan specific to your needs. It will focus on gait, or walking skills, strength and flexibility, and vestibular rehabilitation; among other components.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Cassie Zanolini Newsom, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> 215 -489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/">It is the FIRST DAY OF FALL, But Don’t you Do it!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/it-is-the-first-day-of-fall-but-dont-you-do-it/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3245</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>