Studies indicate that falls are the leading cause of accidental death of individuals over the age of 85. The cost of imbalance and falling in the United States is nearly $20.2 billion annually for treating fall-related injuries. The risk and fear associated with falling can result in gradually decreased activity levels and increasing dependence. Balance loss can be complicated as there are many variables including inner ear problems, vision deficits, joint position sense and strength deficits, and peripheral sensation problems. Aging, disease processes, or injury can significantly affect our ability to make balance adjustments. If these systems are intact, we still have to be able to appropriately and quickly make the responses required to prevent falling which requires strength and agility.

At Parkside Physical Therapy we recognize that maintaining balance is crucial to an active and satisfying life style. The fear of balance loss and falling can result in decreasing activity, isolation, and diminished quality of life. We are trained to evaluate balance disorders and prescribe exercise programs that can help our patients to improve their ability to make balance adjustments and avoid falling. It is our wish that people maintain an active lifestyle through thoughtful exercise programs. Please call us for information.