Our ability to maintain balance when sitting, standing, and walking is necessary for completion of activities of daily living. Balance is a complex interaction of body systems that, if one or more are impaired, can affect your ability to confidently go about your day.
In order to understand our position in relation to our surroundings, we rely on three primary systems. Visual input helps us determine the relative location and orientation of objects in the environment. Additionally, small structures within your muscles communicate to your body how your muscles and joints are positioned, also known as proprioception. Lastly, the vestibular system, or inner ear, helps to determine how your head and body are positioned in relation to your environment. While these are the primary components of balance, sometimes something as simple as muscle weakness can lead to significant balance difficulties. A deficit in any of these areas can lead to balance impairments that can impact your day-to-day life.
If you have difficulty maintaining balance with your daily or recreational activities, physical therapy can help by identifying impairments and constructing a treatment plan specific to you. Call Respire Physical Therapy today at 703-671-1871 or click here to schedule an evaluation with a Physical Therapist today. Get back to the activities you love with confidence!
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