<?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>VeDa Archives - WWSPT.Com</title> <atom:link href="https://wwspt.com/category/veda/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://wwspt.com/category/veda/</link> <description>Healing, Function, Recovery, Health</description> <lastBuildDate>Sat, 24 Sep 2022 02:00:41 +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>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>Imbalance can be Debilitating!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/imbalance-can-be-debilitating/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/imbalance-can-be-debilitating/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kelsey Krebs Hanlon, PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 16 Sep 2021 18:49:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[falls]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VeDa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=2697</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>It’s almost Balance Awareness Week! September 19 – 25, 2021 Having a good balance is something that many of us take for granted, but many people, especially in the older population, experience imbalance on a daily basis that can be debilitating. There are three main systems that contribute to a person’s balance. The first is […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/imbalance-can-be-debilitating/">Imbalance can be Debilitating!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It’s almost Balance Awareness Week!<br /> September 19 – 25, 2021</p> <p>Having a good balance is something that many of us take for granted, but many people, especially in the older population, experience imbalance on a daily basis that can be debilitating.</p> <p>There are three main systems that contribute to a person’s balance. The first is the <strong>visual system</strong>, which most people rely on as the primary system for balance. This reliance can present problems in low-light situations such as nighttime, or with visual changes that occur with age. The second is our <strong>proprioception system</strong>, which involves the ability of receptors in the joints of our feet and ankles to sense their position, as well as sensation, which can be disrupted with certain diseases such as peripheral neuropathy. The final contributor is your <strong>vestibular system</strong>, which is the tiny center located in your inner ear responsible for sending information to your brain regarding head movements and positioning. There are various disorders that can impact the vestibular system, including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), unilateral vestibular loss (UVL), and Meniere’s Disease.</p> <p> </p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/balance.png" alt="" /></p> <p>There are also other factors that can impact balance including leg strength and flexibility, hearing, brain injury, and cognitive function. Staying active and keeping up with yearly hearing and vision examinations can help to prevent imbalance. While people tend to associate a declining balance with age, many do not realize that balance can be improved. This can be essential for decreasing fall risk, which is significant because The World Health Organization lists fall(s) as the second leading cause of accidental injury and death worldwide.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Balance-come.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>Physical Therapists, especially those who specialize in vestibular rehabilitation at WWSPT, are able to assess the contributing factors to your balance and design an exercise program that focuses on these deficits. The program may include leg strengthening and flexibility exercises, balance exercises, and head and eye movement exercises designed to improve the function of your vestibular system. If you are feeling less confident with your balance, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or a physical therapist and request a consultation. It’s never too late to improve your balance and your confidence!</p> <p> </p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Balance-Go.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>A simple exercise that can be done to work on balance is to stand near a stable surface with your feet together. The goal would be to maintain this position for 30 seconds. This exercise can be progressed to standing with feet together with one foot slightly in front of the other, standing with one foot directly in front of the other, and to balancing on only one leg. As a general rule, the activity should be challenging but not so hard that you are unable to complete it for at least 8-10 seconds. To make a position more challenging, you can close your eyes (removing your vision and therefore one of your balance systems completely!), but remember that this will make the exercise much harder, and be sure that you are able to grab onto the stable surface if needed to avoid a fall. Try to perform this exercise 1-2 X per day if possible.</p> <p>Dr. Kelsey Hanlon, PT, DPT<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation,<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/imbalance-can-be-debilitating/">Imbalance can be Debilitating!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/imbalance-can-be-debilitating/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2697</post-id> </item> <item> <title>“Brain Fog” is now being associated with post COVID-19 symptoms</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/brain-fog-is-now-being-associated-with-post-covid-19-symptoms/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/brain-fog-is-now-being-associated-with-post-covid-19-symptoms/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2021 14:31:41 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brain Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Coronavirus]]></category> <category><![CDATA[COVID-19]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[falls]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pandemic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VeDa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VR]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3062</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>One year after we entered the Public Health Emergency of COVID-19 pandemic, researchers are gathering information about common symptoms associated with patients post covid episodes. Thirty percent of post-COVID patients have some form of neurological symptoms which include common vestibular symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, balance issues, and earaches. Sometimes these symptoms are short term but […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/brain-fog-is-now-being-associated-with-post-covid-19-symptoms/">“Brain Fog” is now being associated with post COVID-19 symptoms</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One year after we entered the Public Health Emergency of COVID-19 pandemic, researchers are gathering information about common symptoms associated with patients post covid episodes. Thirty percent of post-COVID patients have some form of neurological symptoms which include common vestibular symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, balance issues, and earaches. Sometimes these symptoms are short term but they can also persist for 4-8 weeks afterward</p> <p>Most of us are aware of the most common neurological symptoms of ageusia, lack of taste and anosmia, lack of smell, which are both cranial nerves with direct input to the brain. The vestibular nerve which is also a cranial nerve for the inner ear is also affected in a smaller population, approximately 0.6%. Patients with vestibular symptoms are frequently referred to WWSPT since we are experts in the field of Vestibular Rehabilitation. Most have complaints of lightheadedness, headaches, and dizziness but researchers have found up to 6% having acute vertigo attacks.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/BRAIN-FOG.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>Headaches and dizziness can also be associated with Brain fog. What is “<strong>Brain fog</strong>”? it is not a medical condition. It’s a <strong>term</strong> used for certain <strong>symptoms</strong> that can affect your ability to think. You may feel confused or disorganized or find it hard to focus or put your thoughts into words. Brain fog is a common vestibular symptom and now is also being associated with post covid symptoms, your vestibular therapist can help!!</p> <p>The article below gives more information about post covid symptoms and brain fog.</p> <div><span id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT146_com_zimbra_url" class="Object" role="link"><a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/05/06/992401123/if-your-brain-feels-foggy-and-youre-tired-all-the-time-youre-not-alone" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2021/05/06/992401123/if-your-brain-feels-foggy-and-youre-tired-all-the-time-youre-not-alone</a></span></div> <div></div> <div>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, Pt, OCS,</div> <div>WWS Physical Therapy and VestibularRehabilitation</div> <div>Doylestown, PA.</div> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/brain-fog-is-now-being-associated-with-post-covid-19-symptoms/">“Brain Fog” is now being associated with post COVID-19 symptoms</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/brain-fog-is-now-being-associated-with-post-covid-19-symptoms/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3062</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Balance and Aging</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/balance-and-aging/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/balance-and-aging/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 19 Sep 2020 16:40:03 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Epley maneuver]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Healthy Aging]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[PT Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VeDa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VR]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=2859</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>WHY ARE SENIORS AT HIGHER RISK FOR FALLS? Dizziness can happen at any age, but if it results in falling it can be a serious health concern, particularly in older adults. Studies show that you can take action to reduce dizziness and your risk of falling. Begin by talking with your health care providers to […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-and-aging/">Balance and Aging</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>WHY ARE SENIORS AT HIGHER RISK FOR FALLS?</h2> <p>Dizziness can happen at any age, but if it results in falling it can be a serious health concern, particularly in older adults.</p> <p>Studies show that you can take action to reduce dizziness and your risk of falling. Begin by talking with your health care providers to explore medical issues that may be contributing to your symptoms, and exercise to improve your balance and strength.</p> <h3>How Do We Maintain Balance?</h3> <p>Normal balance is dependent on many factors, including multiple systems of the body, as well as external and environmental factors.</p> <p>The body has three primary sensory systems that work together to create postural stability. With normal brain function, the vestibular system of the inner ear coordinates with the visual system and proprioceptors that sense the position and movement of your body in space. These three systems work together while we perform simple tasks, such as standing and walking, or more complex and dynamic activities, such as yoga or hitting a golf ball accurately.</p> <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2262" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Balance-senior.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="572" srcset="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Balance-senior.jpg 900w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Balance-senior-300x191.jpg 300w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Balance-senior-768x488.jpg 768w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Balance-senior-250x159.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></p> <h3>What Causes Dizziness & Imbalance As We Age?</h3> <ul> <li>Impaired Inner Ear Function</li> <li>Cardiovascular Health</li> <li>Neurological Disease</li> <li>Arthritis</li> <li>Mental Status</li> <li>Nutrition</li> <li>Impaired Vision</li> <li>Lifestyle and Environmental Factors</li> </ul> <h3>How Does the Inner Ear Create Symptoms?</h3> <p>The inner ear is a complex structure of fluid-filled tubes and chambers. Specialized nerve endings inside these structures sense the position and movement of the head and detect the direction of gravity. Signals sent from the nerves of the vestibular system are critically important to the brain’s ability to control balance in standing and walking. They also control movements of the eyes that make it possible to see clearly while moving.</p> <p>Anatomical studies have shown that the number of nerve cells in the vestibular system decreases after about age 55. Blood flow to the inner ear also decreases with age. When the vestibular system is damaged, an individual may experience dizziness and balance problems. However, the gradual, age-related loss of vestibular nerve endings can result in balance problems without any associated dizziness. This type of slow loss of vestibular function may be first noticed as difficulty walking or standing, especially in the dark while on soft or uneven surfaces (such as thick carpet or a forest path).</p> <p>A decline in inner ear function may be caused by a number of conditions, including normal aging, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), infection, Meniere’s disease, or diminished blood flow to specialized nerve cells. Additionally, certain medications such as some antibiotics for severe infections and chemotherapy may damage the inner ear, resulting in temporary or permanent hearing loss, impaired balance, and trouble seeing clearly while in motion. Feelings of dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and disequilibrium may indicate that the inner ear is not functioning correctly.</p> <p>Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common vestibular disorder in older adults and causes a sense of true spinning vertigo triggered by a change of position of the head or body. With this condition the spinning can be triggered by things like tipping your head up or down, quickly rotating your head, bending over, rolling over in bed, or getting in and out of bed. BPPV is a mechanical disorder that occurs when debris, called otoconia, loosen and tumble into the semicircular canals of the inner ear. This event causes false signals to the brain triggering a brief sense of vertigo. The spinning lasts less than a minute and can provoke nausea, vomiting, and imbalance. BPPV can be effectively treated by a Vestibular Physical Therapist with specialized training by using proven techniques, such as the Epley maneuver or canal repositioning techniques, which help return the otoconia to their correct position in the inner ear.</p> <p>Labyrinthitis is an infection or inflammation of the inner ear that causes severe vertigo lasting 1-2 days, hearing loss, and severe imbalance that can affect walking. Neuronitis is a similar disorder causing vertigo, but it does not affect hearing. Both can be triggered by an upper respiratory infection, virus or flu, or can occur with no obvious cause.</p> <p>Meniere’s disease causes similar symptoms, including periodic episodes of vertigo, dizziness, and hearing loss. It is thought to be a result of an excess amount of fluid, called endolymph, collecting in the inner ear.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2741" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Vestibular-System-small.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="706" srcset="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Vestibular-System-small.jpg 900w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Vestibular-System-small-300x235.jpg 300w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Vestibular-System-small-768x602.jpg 768w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Vestibular-System-small-250x196.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></p> <h3>Neurological Diseases – Healthy Brain</h3> <p>Normal orientation also relies on healthy brain function to process, adapt, and interpret changing sensory information from the vestibular system, vision, and body input. The brain must process this information to select appropriate balancing strategies and learn new strategies necessary for changing environments. There are many disorders, such as stroke, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease, concussion, and dementia, that interfere with brain function resulting in slower and inaccurate balance reactions. Cognitive deficits are often associated with balance problems, demonstrating the complex nature of performing dynamic balance tasks.</p> <p>As you can see, balance is very complex and there are a variety of conditions that can put a person at risk of falling. See VeDA’s article Balance and Falls in Older Adults for more information.</p> <p>Some people may believe feeling off-balance or having dizziness is an unavoidable consequence of aging. Here’s the good news: with proper diagnosis, many of the causes that result in imbalance, dizziness, or falls can be treated or diminished with lifestyle changes.</p> <p>Start by having a thorough assessment by your primary physician at least once a year. Tell them if you are experiencing dizziness, lightheadedness, vertigo, imbalance, or have suffered a fall. There may be multiple health issues and medication interactions contributing to symptoms of dizziness and imbalance. Making an accurate diagnosis to determine the source of the symptoms may be a complicated task for your physician, and they may refer you to a specialist.</p> <p>The physician should include checking for specific muscle weakness in the legs and feet or a decline in sensation, which can indicate a need for strengthening or specific footwear.<br /> If you are experiencing dizziness with specific head movements or sitting up in bed you should be screened for BPPV. If your physician concludes that your vestibular, visual, or sensory systems are creating a risk of falling, s/he will refer you to a certified vestibular therapist who specializes in Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT). Studies have shown that VRT can help improve balance, decrease dizziness, and decrease fall risk. A vestibular therapist is a physical therapist with specific training in the assessment of balance deficits and inner ear disorders. Exercises provided by a vestibular therapist will be based on the functional impairments that are measured in the therapist’s evaluation of the vestibular and balance systems. The exercises are designed to reduce dizziness associated with movement and improve visual clarity, balance reactions, joint mobility, and strength to decrease fall risk. (See VeDA’s article about Vestibular Rehabilitation.)</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-1865" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/BPPVanDizziness.jpg" alt="" width="752" height="503" srcset="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/BPPVanDizziness.jpg 550w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/BPPVanDizziness-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/BPPVanDizziness-250x167.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 752px) 100vw, 752px" /></p> <p>It’s essential that you see your eye doctor and make sure your glasses are the correct prescription. If you have bifocal or progressive lenses, you may want to get a pair of glasses with only your distance prescription for outdoor activities, such as walking. Sometimes progressive lenses can make things seem closer or farther away than they really are, which is especially risky when walking down steps or slopes.</p> <p>It is also important to be screened for diabetes, cataracts, macular degeneration, or neuropathy.</p> <p>You can also make lifestyle choices that have been shown to improve balance and facilitate good health as we age.</p> <p>First, it is important to have adequate nutrition, which includes a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, protein, and low sugar foods. You should also include supplements of Vitamin D 880 IU with calcium to strengthen the bone and reduce the risk of fractures (CDC, Shahar 2009).</p> <p>Second, it has been shown that staying active and exercising can reduce fall risk in the elderly (Shubert 2011). In community-dwelling adults, a progressive exercise program with a moderate to a high level of balance exercises and cardiovascular conditioning has been shown to be an effective way to reduce falls. Exercise programs may include standing squats, single-leg standing, toe, and heel raises, tandem stance or walking, hip and knee strengthening, walking tasks, and high-level balance tasks such as reaching, turning, and stair-stepping. Tai chi is a form of exercise involving low impact dynamic movements of the arms and legs with reaching and turning, and movement of the torso in repetitive patterns. It not only benefits the body but also is cognitively challenging.</p> <p>Walking is a beneficial form of exercise, especially when the additional emphasis is placed on increasing stride and speed of steps, which studies have shown to reduce falls in older adults.</p> <p>Another easy step in reducing falls is to make changes to your home creating a safer environment.</p> <p>Authors: By Wendy Webb Schoenewald PT, OCS and Viviann C. Bailey MSPT</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/balance-and-aging/">Balance and Aging</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/balance-and-aging/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2859</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Step-2-Balance: Use Your Head!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/step-2-balance-use-your-head/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/step-2-balance-use-your-head/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Kelsey Krebs Hanlon, PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2020 15:48:38 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[COVID-19]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Exercise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[falls]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VeDa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VR]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=2739</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>National Balance Week Continues! As many of us have become less active, or even sedentary during this quarantine time, our balance may suffer. This can occur from a number of different factors, including decreased muscle strength, poor endurance, and a lack of input to the vestibular system. The vestibular system is a major balance center […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/step-2-balance-use-your-head/">Step-2-Balance: Use Your Head!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>National Balance Week</strong> Continues! As many of us have become less active, or even sedentary during this quarantine time, our balance may suffer. This can occur from a number of different factors, including decreased muscle strength, poor endurance, and a lack of input to the vestibular system.</p> <p>The vestibular system is a major balance center located in our inner ear, and it helps us maintain balance when our head is moving. For people with previous problems with their vestibular system (for example, a person with a previous diagnosis of labyrinthitis or vestibular neuronitis), a period of inactivity can lead to a potential relapse in their dizziness and imbalance symptoms. This is referred to as a decompensation event, whereas no additional damage to the vestibular system has occurred, but the person has lost some of the functional compensation they have developed to control their symptoms. Decompensation can occur after illness, bed rest, surgery, or any other period of inactivity (including quarantine!).</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Vestibular-System-small.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>Even for those of us who do not have a history of the vestibular deficit, if we have not been moving our heads frequently for a period of weeks to months, our vestibular system can become “lazy.” When this happens, head movements that were previously non-provoking can cause imbalance, and in some cases, dizziness.</p> <p>A simple way to stimulate your vestibular system and work on your balance is to move your head. Start by sitting, and move your head side to side as far as you can 5-10 times at a pace of ½ rotation (L to R or R to L) per second. Then stop and see how you feel. You should not be dizzy or your dizziness should settle to baseline in < 5 seconds. Repeat looking up and down.</p> <p>If you find that this is easy, you can progress to standing near a counter or solid surface that you would feel comfortable grabbing should you lose your balance. Start with your feet shoulder-width apart, and slowly move them closer together as able until they are touching. From there you can progress to a semi-tandem stance, and eventually a tandem stance. An even bigger challenge would be to perform with your eyes closed.</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Walk-and-Turn-Vestibular.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>One of the most functional vestibular tasks that you can perform is to walk while moving your head. Imbalance during this skill leads to difficulty with daily tasks such as turning your head when something distracts you while you are walking (such as when you see something out of the corner of your eye, or when someone calls your name unexpectedly), or difficulty navigating the supermarket and other stores.</p> <p>To stimulate your vestibular system and practice this skill, begin in a hallway so that you could grab onto either wall if you lose your balance. Make sure that there are no tripping hazards (throw rugs, pets, obstacles, etc) in the hallway as you will not be looking at your feet. Begin walking at a slow to a normal pace and turn your head fully to the right. Walk for 3 steps, keeping your head turned to the right, and then rotate your head to the left, walk for 3 steps and return to the right. Repeat until you get down the hallway. You will want to try left and right for approximately 1 minute, before switching to up and down. It is important to maintain your head turn during walking and to make sure you wait for 3 full steps to turn your head. Turning your head too quickly is not functional and can result in dizziness.</p> <p>If you are noticing that you are having increased balance deficits, feel free to reach out to <a href="https://wwspt.com/contact">WWS Physical Therapy</a> for a consultation. It is never too early or too late to improve balance!</p> <p>Kelsey Hanlon. PT, DPT</p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/step-2-balance-use-your-head/">Step-2-Balance: Use Your Head!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/step-2-balance-use-your-head/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2739</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Steps-2-good-Balance in My Garden!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/steps-2-good-balance-in-my-garden/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/steps-2-good-balance-in-my-garden/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2020 00:21:59 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VeDa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=2685</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>In response to VEDA and Dr. Jenna McLane’s challenge for those living with vestibular disorders to set a goal and to take a step toward recovery, I have a suggestion. Gardening! For me, this yearly ritual begins around Mother’s Day, and it has been a calming activity to distract me from the anxiety of the […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/steps-2-good-balance-in-my-garden/">Steps-2-good-Balance in My Garden!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In response to VEDA and Dr. Jenna McLane’s challenge for those living with vestibular disorders to set a goal and to take a step toward recovery, I have a suggestion. Gardening! For me, this yearly ritual begins around Mother’s Day, and it has been a calming activity to distract me from the anxiety of the pandemic. It’s nice to get outside (within social distancing guidelines) and start gardening in my flower beds.</p> <p>While gardening, I thought, “This is a good balance task!” There are so many things that involve balance and strengthening.</p> <p>First, you are outside soaking up Vitamin D, which is excellent for your vestibular system. Studies have shown that Vitamin D can help prevent BPPV. Researchers recommend supplementing your diet with Vitamin D and calcium carbonate to reduce further attacks of BPPV.</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Walk-in-the-garden.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>Second, as I walked from the flower beds to the grass (with my supportive sneakers), I realized this is what I do with my patients in the clinic. I have patients walk on uneven, changing surfaces, some soft and some hard, and challenge them to make reactive, neurological adjustments in their balance.</p> <p>Third, I loosen up the soil with a shovel to prepare the ground for my herbs and flowers. This means standing on one foot and balancing while I put my other foot on the shovel and pushing down with my core and legs to create a hole for my flower seedlings. The shovel can give some support if needed. In my Bucks County home, I often hit many rocks when shoveling, which can challenge my balance and cause the need for even more effort.</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/My-Garden.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>Fourth, I prepare the hole with gardening soil, so my flowers have a healthy bed for their roots (to grow beautiful flowers). This means squatting or bending down to fill the hole. You are now moving your head and semicircular canals in linear and diagonal patterns stimulating all your postural, visual, and vestibular systems to work together. You require good coordination of these systems to help you have healthy roots too! The vestibular system may be an organ the size of an M&M, but it is incredible what it helps us do when it works correctly.</p> <p>Finally, I bend over again to plant the seedlings and sure the soil — reaching, gathering, and patting around the plant to give it a solid base. The next step is watering the flowers. I prefer to gently water new seedlings with my watering can. This means carrying the 5-gallon watering can from the hose to the new plants and maintaining my balance on uneven ground as I lean over to shower my flowers with the water they need to grow. This takes muscular effort, balance reactions, and accuracy of the visual system. My balance must adjust subtly while I move to water the next plant with a light watering can.</p> <p><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Garden-Results.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p>Gardening is an activity we take for granted, but for someone suffering from a vestibular disorder, it may be a very challenging task to complete. You can make accommodations such as using a cart, a kneeler, or something to assist you in getting up and down from the ground. Using a shovel or a walking stick may help prevent falls. Dizzy people may need to plan to complete small areas each day as gardening can be very fatiguing.</p> <p>Gardening is a great way to help your vestibular system recover, especially since once you’ve planted everything, you need to continue nurturing the garden with watering, weeding, and pruning for the next several summer months.</p> <p>The best part is that you can reach your goal of becoming more active through gardening. You can challenge your vestibular system with head and body movement, and you’ll have better balance and less fall risk. Better yet, you’ll have beautiful flowers to enjoy and share as a measure of your efforts. Whoever thought of gardening as a form of Vestibular Rehabilitation? Only me, your <strong>Vestibular (nerd) Therapist</strong>! So start a simple garden today, and share some photos of your flowers with me at WWSPT on our Facebook page.</p> <p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WWSPhysicalTherapyandVestibularRehabilitation/">WWS Physical Therapy & Vestibular Rehabilitation Facebook page</a>.</p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS,</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/steps-2-good-balance-in-my-garden/">Steps-2-good-Balance in My Garden!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/steps-2-good-balance-in-my-garden/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2685</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Steps-2-Balance Week at WWSPT</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/steps-2-balance-week-at-wwspt/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/steps-2-balance-week-at-wwspt/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jenna McLane PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2020 16:06:12 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV treatment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brain Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VeDa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VR]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Balance]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=2680</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>May 17-23, 2020 is the Vestibular Disorder Association’s (VeDA) Steps-2-Balance week. This challenge is meant to help encourage those living with vestibular disorders to take the step forward to recovery. As part of this challenge, your favorite vestibular specialists at WWSPT invite you to set your own personal balance goal and create a plan of […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/steps-2-balance-week-at-wwspt/">Steps-2-Balance Week at WWSPT</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>May 17-23, 2020 is the Vestibular Disorder Association’s (VeDA) Steps-2-Balance week. This challenge is meant to help encourage those living with vestibular disorders to take the step forward to recovery. As part of this challenge, your favorite vestibular specialists at <a href="https://wwspt.com/">WWSPT</a> invite you to set your own personal balance goal and create a plan of action to achieve it! You can do it!</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Balance-Week-Steps-to-Balance.png" alt="VeDa Steps-2-Balance week" width="1198" height="798" /></p> <p>Your personal goal can be anything from adding 5 minutes of exercise to your day, resuming those VOR exercises ( Vestibular Ocular exercises) you haven’t been as consistent with lately, starting to take walks outside of your home, or even just finally picking up the phone to call the clinic to be evaluated.</p> <p>If you feel stuck in your recovery or want to gain a little more confidence in your everyday balance then please call us! Also, please feel free to share your own personal vestibular goal and how you are working to achieve it on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WWSPhysicalTherapyandVestibularRehabilitation/">Facebook page</a>. Remember, you’ve got this and we are here to help!</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://wwspt.com/contact">WWS Physical Therapy & Vestibular Rehabilitation </a></p> <p>215-489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/steps-2-balance-week-at-wwspt/">Steps-2-Balance Week at WWSPT</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/steps-2-balance-week-at-wwspt/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2680</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>