<?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>Vestibular System Archives - WWSPT.Com</title> <atom:link href="https://wwspt.com/category/vestibular-system/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://wwspt.com/category/vestibular-system/</link> <description>Healing, Function, Recovery, Health</description> <lastBuildDate>Sat, 24 Aug 2024 13:34:17 +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>Vestibular Loss</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/vestibular-loss/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/vestibular-loss/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Gregory Synnestvedt PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 24 Aug 2024 13:34:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[acute vestibulopathy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[brain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Eyes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Laybrinthitis]]></category> <category><![CDATA[spinning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Neuritis]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibulopathy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4470</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>An episode of spinning or “vertigo” can have many different causes. In acute vestibulopathy, one side of the vestibular system suddenly loses function. This causes an event of sudden vertigo lasting hours to days, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and imbalance that improve over days to weeks. Often, a sudden loss of vestibular function like […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/vestibular-loss/">Vestibular Loss</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>An episode of spinning or “vertigo” can have many different causes. In acute vestibulopathy, one side of the vestibular system suddenly loses function. This causes <strong>an event of sudden vertigo</strong> lasting hours to days, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and imbalance that improve over days to weeks.</p> <p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/acute-vestibulopathy.png" alt="" width="801" height="449" /></p> <p>Often, a sudden loss of vestibular function like this is called vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, caused by a sudden viral infection or a vascular problem affecting the inner ear or the nerves connecting the vestibular system to the brain. We have special tests such as the video goggles exam and video head impulse test that can detect decreased or asymmetrical vestibular function, help us measure the severity of the problem, understand how patients are recovering, and prescribe appropriate exercises to help them recover. Exercises for someone with acute vestibulopathy involve training the brain to stabilize the eyes during head movements and retraining balance.</p> <p> </p> <p>Dr. Greg Synnestevt, PT, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, Pennsylvania</p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/vestibular-loss/">Vestibular Loss</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/vestibular-loss/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4470</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Understanding Vestibular Agnosia: A Comprehensive Overview</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jun 2024 18:19:45 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[BPPV]]></category> <category><![CDATA[brain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[coordination movement problems]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Epley maneuver]]></category> <category><![CDATA[inner ear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[motion perception]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Neurological condition]]></category> <category><![CDATA[neurology]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Agnosia (VA)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></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=4419</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Introduction Vestibular agnosia is a rare and intriguing neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to process vestibular information, which is critical for balance and spatial orientation. Understanding vestibular agnosia is crucial for medical professionals, researchers, and those affected despite its rarity. This blog aims to provide a detailed overview of vestibular agnosia, including its […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/">Understanding Vestibular Agnosia: A Comprehensive Overview</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Introduction</strong></p> <p>Vestibular agnosia is a rare and intriguing neurological condition that affects the brain’s ability to process vestibular information, which is critical for balance and spatial orientation. Understanding vestibular agnosia is crucial for medical professionals, researchers, and those affected despite its rarity. This blog aims to provide a detailed overview of vestibular agnosia, including its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.</p> <p><strong>What is Vestibular Agnosia?</strong></p> <p>Vestibular agnosia is a neurological disorder characterized by the inability to recognize or process vestibular stimuli. The vestibular system in the inner ear plays a fundamental role in maintaining balance, spatial orientation, and coordinating movement. Individuals with vestibular agnosia have intact vestibular function but cannot consciously perceive or interpret vestibular information, leading to significant difficulties in everyday life.</p> <p><strong>Symptoms of Vestibular Agnosia</strong></p> <p>The symptoms of vestibular agnosia can vary widely but often include:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Balance Issues</strong>: Difficulty maintaining balance, especially in low-visibility conditions.</li> <li><strong>Spatial Disorientation</strong>: Challenges in navigating through space or identifying one’s body position in relation to the environment.</li> <li><strong>Motion Perception Problems</strong>: Inability to perceive or respond appropriately to movement, such as feeling unstable when walking or turning.</li> <li><strong>Vertigo</strong>: Sensations of spinning or dizziness without an apparent cause.</li> <li><strong>Coordination Problems</strong>: Difficulty coordinating movements, leading to clumsiness or frequent falls.</li> </ul> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Agnosia-Science-Direct.png" alt="" width="800" height="530" /></p> <p><strong>Causes and Risk Factors</strong></p> <p>The precise cause of vestibular agnosia is not fully understood. Still, it is typically associated with damage or dysfunction in the brain areas responsible for processing vestibular information, such as the parietal lobes or the temporoparietal junction. Potential causes and risk factors include:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Brain Injury</strong>: Trauma to the head can disrupt vestibular pathways.</li> <li><strong>Neurological Disorders</strong>: Conditions such as stroke, cerebral small vessel disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or brain tumors can affect vestibular processing.</li> <li><strong>Infections</strong>: Certain infections can damage the brain regions involved in vestibular perception.</li> <li><strong>Genetic Factors</strong>: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing vestibular agnosia, although this is still under investigation.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Diagnosis</strong></p> <p>Diagnosing vestibular agnosia involves a comprehensive evaluation by a Neurologist or a Vestibular Physical Therapist specializing in vestibular disorders. The diagnostic process typically includes:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Clinical History</strong>: Detailed assessment of symptoms and medical history.</li> <li><strong>Physical Examination</strong>: Tests to evaluate balance, coordination, and spatial orientation.</li> <li>Positional testing for <strong>Benign paroxysmal positional Vertigo</strong> (BPPV)</li> <li><strong>Vestibular Testing</strong>: Specialized tests such as electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG) to assess vestibular function, Video head thrust Testing(vHIT)</li> <li><strong>Neuroimaging</strong>: MRI or CT scans to identify any brain lesions or abnormalities.</li> </ul> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Wendy_examining_patient_Micromedical__Infrared_Goggles-copy.png" alt="" width="801" height="556" /></p> <p><strong>Treatment and Management</strong></p> <p>Currently, there is no cure for vestibular agnosia, but several treatment approaches can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)</strong>: A customized exercise program to improve balance and spatial orientation. Provide treatment to resolve BPPV</li> <li><strong>Medications</strong>: Drugs to alleviate symptoms like vertigo and dizziness.</li> <li><strong>Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)</strong>: Psychological support to help patients cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the condition.</li> <li><strong>Assistive Devices</strong>: Tools such as canes or balance aids to enhance safety and mobility.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p> <p>Vestibular agnosia, while rare, presents significant challenges for those affected. We can enhance our understanding and management of this complex condition through continued research and advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. Healthcare professionals must remain vigilant in recognizing the signs of vestibular agnosia to provide timely and effective support for their patients.</p> <p>Raising awareness and improving education about vestibular agnosia can contribute to better outcomes and quality of life for individuals living with this condition. Suppose you suspect that you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of vestibular agnosia. In that case, seeking professional medical advice for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management is essential. Contact <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT</a> for additional information on Vestibular agnosia and/or to schedule an evaluation,</p> <p>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/">Understanding Vestibular Agnosia: A Comprehensive Overview</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/understanding-vestibular-agnosia-a-comprehensive-overview/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4419</post-id> </item> <item> <title>About Vestibular Agnosia (VA)</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 05 Jun 2024 23:15:41 +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[brain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Agnosia (VA)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></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=4417</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Vestibular Agnosia (VA)is a newly recognized condition in the brain that results in loss of vertigo perception and postural imbalance. This means there is a disconnect in the brain’s electrical wiring; the white matter tissue has reduced transmission, and therefore, the brain doesn’t recognize dizziness symptoms. VA can cause vertigo and balance problems, spatial and […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/">About Vestibular Agnosia (VA)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Vestibular Agnosia (VA)is a newly recognized condition in the brain that results in loss of vertigo perception and postural imbalance. This means there is a disconnect in the brain’s electrical wiring; the white matter tissue has reduced transmission, and therefore, the brain doesn’t recognize dizziness symptoms. VA can cause vertigo and balance problems, spatial and motion perception issues, and coordination problems.</p> <p> </p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Vestibular-BPPV.png" alt="" width="800" height="533" /></p> <p>In the case of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), the brain doesn’t acknowledge vertigo-spinning symptoms. However, patients can still have a postural imbalance that can be associated with a fall. BPPV is associated with an increased incidence of falls, especially in our elderly population. Patients with BPPV normally have an attack of vertigo and feeling off balance. Patients with VA who may have BPPV don’t get that warning spinning and have sudden falls or changes in postural control because the brain isn’t providing the proper signals to interpret vestibular input and prevent a fall.</p> <p>To rule out BPPV, it is important to get a thorough Vestibular evaluation on anyone with sudden falls. Though the perception of vertigo is not present in these patients, the neurological response of nystagmus is apparent on evaluation, and your Vestibular Therapist can effectively treat it with an Epley maneuver in the same way normal BPPV is treated.</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/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/">About Vestibular Agnosia (VA)</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/about-vestibular-agnosia-va/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4417</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Essential Physical Therapy Screening!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Gregory Synnestvedt PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Apr 2024 17:49:56 +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[Crystals and Canals]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Doylestown PA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[falls]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy Screening]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SAFE act]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[World Health Organization]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4366</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Importance of Physical Therapy Screening for Risk of Falling and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) Falling can happen at any age and cause a person significant injury. For someone over 65 years of age, falls are especially concerning. The World Health Organization recognizes falls as the second most common cause of unintentional death in […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/">Essential Physical Therapy Screening!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Importance of Physical Therapy Screening for Risk of Falling and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Falling can happen at any age and cause a person significant injury. For someone over 65 years of age, falls are especially concerning. The World Health Organization recognizes falls as the second most common cause of unintentional death in the world (after car accident-related injuries) and states that<strong> “older people have the highest risk of death or serious injury arising from a fall, and the risk increases with age.”</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Physical therapists have long worked with people to figure out what is causing falls or balance problems and how to best reduce the risk of falling and improve balance. The best way to reduce injuries related to falling is to prevent it in the first place. Increased fall prevention awareness in recent decades has led to important new legislation known as the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly Act, or SAFE Act.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The SAFE Act includes a provision that primary care providers refer their patients to physical therapy for fall prevention evaluation and services if the person has fallen in the last year. Recent economic analysis of how health care is used has shown the cost-effectiveness of physical therapists’ care for fall-related services, mainly through reduced hospital and emergency room admissions.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> More than saving Medicare money, this bill is about improving people’s care and helping prevent injuries and death.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Dr.-Greg-Synnestvedt-Testing.png" alt="" width="796" height="517" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Referral to Physical Therapy for fall-related services is ideal because physical therapists are uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat the most common causes of falling. Balance problems can have many contributing factors, including changes in vestibular function, vision, and cognition, decreased muscle power, reduced endurance, decreased sensation in the feet and joints, and changes in coordination. Physical therapists are trained to evaluate these areas, screen for these issues, and analyze how someone walks and moves in different situations.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A <strong>vestibular physical therapist</strong> is particularly well suited to screen for benign paroxysmal vertigo, an issue that can both cause falls and be caused by falls. BPPV is an issue where tiny calcium carbonate crystals that are meant to be in one part of the vestibular system in the inner ear come loose and go into one of the semi-circular canals, which are little tubes that sense turning head movements</span></p> <p>_____________________________________</p> <p>1 https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/falls<br /> 2 https://www.apta.org/news/2024/03/12/falls-legislation-safe-act<br /> 3 https://www.valueofpt.com/</p> <p>_____________________________________</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When the crystals move in the canals, they stimulate the inner ear and signal to the brain that the head is turning, even though it isn’t. This typically creates a false sense of movement, usually a spinning sensation called vertigo.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It turns out that not everyone who has BPPV experiences vertigo or even a dizziness sensation. Someone with BPPV may feel more off balance with movement due to the crystals being out of place but report no dizziness. When we test them with video goggles, however, we will see the classic involuntary eye movements, called nystagmus, used to diagnose BPPV accurately. Treating their BPPV through positioning maneuvers that guide the crystals out of the canals will help their balance improve.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A new study from a specialty falls and balance clinic in Melbourne, Australia, found that 1 in 4 patients they saw for falls risk who had BPPV had no symptoms of dizziness!</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> This is a great example of why we screen people for BPPV when there is a sudden change in balance function or a recent fall–even if they do not complain of dizziness.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Do-You-Suffer-From-dizziness-copy.png" alt="" width="639" height="800" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Of course, if a patient feels dizzy, this dizziness can also lead to a fall. Treating someone’s dizziness, understandably, will help reduce their risk of falling. This has now been supported by large-scale research. A 2023 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that using physical therapy decreased fall risk in patients in the US who had dizziness.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> The study found that 7% of adults being evaluated for dizziness had a fall resulting in a medical encounter within a year of experiencing dizziness. Receiving physical therapy within 3 months of the initial dizziness visit was associated with an 86% decrease in the odds of falling.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This underscores the value of physical therapy care—particularly by a physical therapist with training and expertise in treating dizziness—for those who have fallen or feel at risk of falling or for those who are experiencing dizziness. If your healthcare provider recommends you seek physical therapy care due to a fall, following through with the therapy is in your best interest. And if you are dizzy, you can reduce your risk of falling by receiving physical therapy. The physical therapists at WWSPT would be happy to help you reduce your risk of falling and feel more confident in your balance again. </span></p> <p>Dr. Greg Synnestvedt, 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;"> 4 </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Susan Hyland, Lyndon J. Hawke & Nicholas F. Taylor (2024) Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo without dizziness is common in people presenting to falls clinics, Disability and Rehabilitation, DOI: </span><a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2024.2320271"><span style="font-weight: 400;">10.1080/09638288.2024.2320271 </span></a></p> <p>5<span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Marmor S, Karaca-Mandic P, Adams ME. Use of Physical Therapy and Subsequent Falls Among Patients With Dizziness in the US. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> 2023;149(12):1083–1090. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2023.2840 </span></p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/">Essential Physical Therapy Screening!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/essential-physical-therapy-screening/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4366</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Research in Vestibular Therapy, Thank you, Dr. Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D!</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:41:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vertigo]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[video head impulse test (vHIT)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=4335</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate in research about Physical Therapists’ ability to learn and use new technology in clinical practice. Thanks to Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph., from St Joseph University, for keeping us involved and being one of the great teachers and leaders in Vestibular Therapy! Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/">Research in Vestibular Therapy, Thank you, Dr. Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div></div> <div><strong>We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate in research about Physical Therapists’ ability to learn and use new technology in clinical practice. Thanks to Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph., from St Joseph University, for keeping us involved and being one of the great teachers and leaders in Vestibular Therapy! </strong></div> <div></div> <div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Anne-G.jpg" alt="Anne Galgon, PT, Ph.D., " width="200" height="200" /></div> <div></div> <div> <div>Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D, completed this study in our WWSPT clinic with our Physical Therapy Saff, learning about new technology, Video head Impulse testing ( vHIT), and how to use the information to improve our diagnostic assessment and measure progress in improving VOR gain of the Vestibular system with neuromuscular retraining. It gave us an excellent start on using vHIT, and we appreciate the learning experience.</div> </div> <div></div> <div><img decoding="async" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/CSM_header-1.png" alt="" /></div> <div> <div> <div></div> <p>We look forward to the upcoming publication of the Phase One study and our participation in Phase Two in May 2024.</p> </div> </div> <div> <div>If you want to learn more about the <strong>Video Head Impulse Test (vHIT)</strong> and how we at <strong>WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation,</strong> Doylestown, use this test for more accurate vestibular diagnosis, visit <a href="https://wwspt.com/vestibular-diagnostics/vestibular-diagnostic-technology/">Vestibular Diagnostic Technology</a> on our website!”</div> </div> <div></div> <p> </p> <div>Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy And Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.<br /> (215) 489-3234</div> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/">Research in Vestibular Therapy, Thank you, Dr. Anne K. Galgon, PT, MPT, Ph.D!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/research-in-vestibular-therapy-thank-you-dr-galgon-pt-ph-d/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">4335</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>Headaches</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/headaches/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/headaches/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Jenna McLane PT, DPT]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2023 02:53:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[headache]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Treatments]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Migraines]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></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=3704</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>We have all experienced headaches at some point or another in our life, whether it was a headache from a cold or a more significant debilitating migraine event. The WHO states that half to three-quarters of adults aged 18-65 have experienced headaches in the last year, and among those, 30% reported experiencing a migraine. Headaches […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/headaches/">Headaches</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We have all experienced headaches at some point or another in our life, whether it was a headache from a cold or a more significant debilitating migraine event. The WHO states that half to three-quarters of adults aged 18-65 have experienced headaches in the last year, and among those, 30% reported experiencing a migraine.</p> <p>Headaches are classified as primary or secondary. Primary headaches include migraine, tension headaches, and cluster headaches. Secondary headaches include those experienced as the result of another underlying medical condition, such as a sinus infection, where the swelling and discomfort from the inflammation process cause head pain.</p> <p>In our WWS Physical Therapy practice, we see individuals with various headache types. Our goal is not only to help reduce symptoms but to teach our clients life-long strategies to manage their symptoms better and reduce the frequency of recurrence. This may include exercises for the neck and shoulder region, sleep hygiene and stress management education, and working with patients to identify their personal headache triggers, which vary by individual.</p> <p><img decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/vestibular-Migraines-COVID19.jpg" alt="" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Tension Headache</em></strong>:</p> <p>Tension headaches are the most common primary headache disorder. They tend to be bilateral and often feel like a band around the head that is non-throbbing. Pain tends to be mild to moderate but not severe. Stress and muscle tension tend to be the driving factors behind these symptoms. Tension-type headaches typically do not cause photophobia (sensitivity to light), nausea, or vomiting.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong><em>Cluster Headache</em></strong>:</p> <p>Cluster headaches are more common in males than females, at a reported ratio of 6 to 1. They cause severe pain on one side and tend to be localized behind one eye. This type of headache may cause the pupil to constrict on the involved side and cause the eye to water. Individuals may also experience sinus congestion or a runny nose on the involved side. These headaches also can be nocturnal, starting 1-2 hours after falling asleep.</p> <p><strong><em>Migraine Headache</em></strong>: Migraine is considered a neurological disease. During this neurological event, abnormal electrical activity may occur in the brain leading to changes in nerve activity and blood flow in the head. It is believed that inflammatory substances are released during this time. Attacks can include headache, usually unilateral, which is throbbing or pulsing. Nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, and visual symptoms can also occur. Some individuals experience changes in speech, coordination, and even numbness associated with their episodes. Other migraine sufferers don’t experience the classic headache as their primary symptom and may experience dizziness, ear pain, or head fullness during an attack.</p> <p> </p> <p>Females are 3x more likely to experience migraine than males. Migraines tend to run in families, and if one parent experiences a migraine, their child has a 50% chance of having one. If both parents have them, that risk increases to 75%.</p> <p> </p> <p>Migraines occur in four phases that can take 8-72 hours to complete. These phases include the <strong>prodrome</strong>, which can cause irritability, depression, muscle stiffness, increased urination, sensitivity to light and sound, and other symptoms. The next phase is the <strong>aura.</strong> Not all migraine sufferers experience an aura, but when present, it can last from 5-60 minutes and may include visual changes, a “funny feeling,” changes in speech, tinnitus, and vision loss. <strong>Headache </strong>is the third phase, associated with the throbbing pain experienced. The headache can spread from one side to both and can be associated with depressed mood, anxiety, fatigue, and sensitivity to light and motion. Following the headache is the <strong>postdrome, </strong>which can last for a day or two after an event. This phase can cause feelings of depression as well as euphoria and difficulty concentrating.</p> <p> </p> <p>Many patients are referred to our Vestibular Therapy practice for complaints of vertigo. Still, during our discussion and evaluation, it is often discovered that these patients also experience signs and symptoms consistent with migraine. A neurological screen is always completed as part of our dizziness evaluations; a headache questionnaire may also be completed when a migraine is suspected. When a headache is suspected, treatment may not be just positional maneuvers for BPPV but can also include migraine symptom management. This treatment plan in physical therapy can involve cardiovascular exercise, habituation exercises to desensitize the nervous system to various movements, and education regarding lifestyle modification. Education can include improving sleep hygiene, modifying screen use, stress management, and learning about common dietary triggers. For some patients, medication is necessary to manage their symptoms fully. We try to work with patients as they navigate their medication journey with their physicians.</p> <p> </p> <p>If you suffer from headaches and want to manage your symptoms better or have questions about improving your activity tolerance, please consider contacting our physical therapy office for an evaluation. We would be happy to help you get started on your headache management journey, no matter where you are in the process.</p> <p>Dr. Jenna McLane, Pt, DPT,<br /> WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation<br /> Doylestown, PA.</p> <p>(215) 489-3234</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/headaches/">Headaches</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/headaches/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3704</post-id> </item> <item> <title>vHIT, Head Impulse Test</title> <link>https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/</link> <comments>https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Wendy Webb Schoenewald, PT, OCS]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2022 23:03:40 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dizziness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[head accelerometer monitor]]></category> <category><![CDATA[high-frequency camera system]]></category> <category><![CDATA[inner ear]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Physical Therapist]]></category> <category><![CDATA[six semicircular canals (SSCs)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular disorders]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Ocular exercises (VOR)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vestibular ocular reflex (VOR)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Vestibular System]]></category> <category><![CDATA[video head impulse test (vHIT)]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VOR function]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWSPT]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://wwspt.com/?p=3623</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>We have Exciting News at WWSPT! To provide the best vestibular rehabilitation care in the region, WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation clinic, Doylestown, PA., has added the video head impulse test (vHIT) to our diagnostic assessment of patients with dizziness. vHIT is one of the latest developments in vestibular testing. WWSPT is adding the […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/">vHIT, Head Impulse Test</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We have Exciting News at WWSPT!</p> <p>To provide the best <strong>vestibular rehabilitation</strong> care in the region, WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation clinic, Doylestown, PA., has added the <strong>video head impulse test (vHIT)</strong> to our diagnostic assessment of patients with <strong>dizziness</strong>.</p> <p><strong>vHIT </strong>is one of the latest developments in <strong>vestibular testing</strong>. <strong>WWSPT </strong>is adding the <strong>video head impulse test </strong>because extensive research has shown that this new technology can help more accurately <strong>measure the function of all six semicircular canals (SSCs)</strong> of the <strong>inner ear.</strong></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter" src="https://wwspt.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Head-Impulse-Test-vHIT.png" alt="" width="775" height="436" /></p> <p>The test measures a person’s <strong>vestibular ocular reflex (VOR),</strong> or how much the eyes move in response to rapid head movement to focus on a visual target. With quick head movements, the patient should be able to keep his eyes focused on a target. When the VOR is reduced, the patient will have difficulty, especially at higher head movement speeds. The video head impulse test can help detect even the slightest losses in <strong>VOR function</strong>, which can help direct treatment progression. It can also track improvement in deficits after a program of vestibular exercises.</p> <p> </p> <p>The test itself only takes around 15 minutes to perform. The <strong>physical therapist</strong> moves the patient’s head in small movements while the patient is looking at a target on the wall. The <strong>high-frequency camera system </strong>and <strong>head accelerometer monitor</strong> how the eyes move and the head acceleration. Comparing the eye movement to the head movement is how the computer calculates the gain of the canal of the vestibular system that’s being tested.</p> <p> </p> <p>After interpreting the test, <strong>the physical therapist</strong> can make a report which can be shared with the patient and the referring physician.</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/vhit-head-impulse-test/">vHIT, Head Impulse Test</a> appeared first on <a href="https://wwspt.com">WWSPT.Com</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://wwspt.com/vhit-head-impulse-test/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">3623</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> </channel> </rss>