Many injuries can cause balance to become off, whether it’s due to increased pain or loss of strength or just poor balance. Here are some injuries that will be shown a balance exercise program to perform while at home.
- Vertigo
- Concussion
- Whiplash
- Knee/Hip replacement
- Ankle sprain/strain
- Ankle surgeries
Balance receptors come from the upper neck, C1and C2 from the cervical spine, they tell your brain where your body is in space, sometimes the receptors become interrupted. Retraining your balance takes practice.
Goals with any balance activity should be 60-80 seconds. Challenging balance is a must, here’s how…
Progression to any balancing exercise
- Surface activity is being performed ~ Floor-Foam-Bosu ball
- Center of gravity ~ Standing on both feet together- One foot in front of the other- Single leg stance
- Perception of body in space ~ Eyes open- Eyes closed
- Dynamic balance activities ~ Performed with movements, can be challenged by the surface, center of gravity and perception of body in space.
While performing any balance activities, it’s important to remember safety. Always follow directions set by your physical therapist.