Balance is one of the most important aspects of our daily lives.
There is no other system in your body that is responsible for the same number of activities, as well as the number of systems that coordinate to perform these tasks.
The balance system is comprised of multiple parts of your body, including your muscles, bones, joints, nerves, inner ear, eyes and brain. All of these individual body parts have to coordinate with one another to complete even simple tasks, such as standing in one place.
Have you ever noticed that you sway slightly when standing still? This is due to constant information being processed by the brain, and the muscles and joints responding with small adjustments to your position to maintain your balance.
The balance system can best be described as the combination of strength and coordination necessary to complete a complex task safely. Whether you are rising from a chair, making breakfast, golfing, playing tennis or hiking, you rely on your balance to be successful. A dysfunction of the system can cause problems for those who are not able to maintain balance and experience a fall.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, falls can cause severe injury and financial hardship. Falls also can prevent you from participating in activities you love. There are more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency departments each year due to falls, with a total cost of more than $50 billion per year.
Falls and fear of falling also have been linked to many other issues affecting quality of life, including physical decline, social isolation, depression and feelings of helplessness. These situations occur as individuals choose to limit their activity for fear of falling.
If you feel that your balance has declined, or that you are unable to participate in activities you love, there are options to help. Many insurance plans will help with the cost of a gym or personal training. You also can join a group exercise program within your community or hire a personal trainer.
If you feel that you need more assistance than those offered, physical therapy can provide a personalized training program specifically designed to meet your needs and help you return to the activities you love.
Spooner Physical Therapy, in North Mesa, is located at 6824 E. Brown Road. To learn more, call (480) 924-5514, or visit spoonerpt.com/locations/north-mesa.