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Vestibular


Physical Therapy for Balance and Dizziness

Blue outline of person with swirls around the head

Balance and dizziness problems often seem like issues that you might have to deal with for the rest of your life. Despite the fact that balance and dizziness issues are widespread, they aren't talked about often and people feel like they are alone in the condition. But FlexPlus is here to help.

FlexPlus Physical Therapy specializes in dizziness, vestibular, and balance physical therapy in Natick, MA..

 

People Who May Benefit from Balance Therapy

  • People with neurological disorders (Parkinson's, muscular dystrophy, drop foot, etc.)

  • People with balance disorders (vertigo, migraines, Meniere's disease, gait issues, etc.)

  • Geriatrics

  • People suffering post-concussion

  • Pediatrics

  • Amputees

  • High Performance Athletes

  • Adaptive Athletes

  • Anyone at Risk of Falling

Balance and walking problems can result from orthopedic conditions, neurological disorders, or a number of injuries that involve the joints, muscles, and nerves.

 

FlexPlus physical therapists take a whole-body approach to consider whether issues with the spine, hip, knee, feet, or input from the eyes or ears contribute to imbalances, and they provide intensive one-on-one care to help you achieve the greatest independence possible.

 

Facts About Balance

  • 1/3 of the population over 65 falls each year

  • In patients over 75, imbalance is the #1 reason for a doctor visit

  • 1/2 of the population over the age of 80 falls each year. 

  • 1 out of 5 people who have hip fractures die within one year after injury

  • Falls account for 25% of all hospital admissions

  • Falls are the #1 cause of fractures

  • Falls account for 40% of all nursing home admissions

  • Falls are the leading case of death due to injury among the elderly

Facts About Vestibular & Dizziness Disorders

  • At least half of the overall United States population is affected by a balance or vestibular disorder sometime during their lives

  • Vestibular dysfunction is a prominent part of balance disorders, particularly in the elderly

  • It has been estimated that 65% of individuals older than 60 years of age experience dizziness or loss of balance, often on a daily basis

  • 23-30% of adults have experienced at least one episode of dizziness, and 3.5% of adults experience a chronic recurrent episode greater than a one-year duration by the age of 65

  • There are an estimated 5-8 million physician visits for dizziness in the United States each year; dizziness is the primary reason for an office visit in the over-75 age group

  • Medications used to manage symptoms of dizziness often slow the recovery process

At FlexPlus Physical Therapy, our therapists realize how important balance and walking are for independent living, as well as for work activities, exercise, sports, and enjoying life in general. To achieve this, we have installed a state-of-the-art balance center in both our Natick location.

To achieve a safe space for patients, we have installed an overhead harness system and several single-point fixation stations, where patients can be hooked into the harness and move and exercise without a fear of falling. The overhead support system gives patients a boost of confidence and allows patients to challenge themselves with advanced therapies. The overhead support system creates a safe environment for balance, strength, and gait training, and there is 100% safety from any fall-related injuries! 

Man in safety harness throwing a ball
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