Clinical Balance Evaluation
Arroyo Physical Therapy utilizes some of the most comprehensive clinical assessment tools available. Sensory integration, gaze stability, dynamic balance, proprioceptive training, and fall prevention/education and gait tasks are rendered to simulate a wide variety of commonly encountered daily activities. Functional performance values, as well as diagnostic results, are analyzed to determine the most appropriate form of therapy needed. Evaluations take approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
Vestibular and Balance Therapy
Vestibular and Balance Therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that treats the debilitating effects of dizziness and balance disorders. Patients with balance disorders often report a variety of symptoms such as dizziness, imbalance, walking difficulties, and falls. This may occur from damage to the vestibular apparatus, the central nervous system, or from postural and strength deficits. Therefore, it is important that the origin of the disorder is properly diagnosed or "differentiated" in order to render effective therapy. A physician ordered audiology diagnostic work-up is recommended prior to starting balance therapy. We also offer VAT Testing as part of our complete line of services.
Once the origin of the balance disorder has been determined through diagnostic testing, the patient is given a clinical evaluation. The goals of the evaluation are to assess physical performance with encountered environments, establish baseline measures, fall risk, and to determine the most appropriate type and level of balance exercises.
Arroyo Physical Therapy utilizes distinct therapy protocols based on your individual diagnosis. Results are superior to traditional balance therapy programs and treatment duration time is much shorter. Typically patients are scheduled for 2 times a weeks for 4 to 6 weeks. Therapy sessions are one-on-one with a licensed Physical Therapist. Additionally, a home program is often given to reduce both treatment and recovery time.
Balance Therapy consists of:
Strengthening
Safety awareness
Postural and balance
Exercises
Gait exercises
Vestibular stimulation
Proprioception tasks
Sensory integration
Patient education