Having Trouble With Your Balance?

Balance is the ability to maintain bodily equilibrium; the line of gravity of our body within the base of support.

We maintain our balance as a result of several of our body's systems working together: the visual system (our eyes), the vestibular system (our ears), and something called proprioception, which is our body's sense of where it is in space. If there is a loss of function of any of these systems, we can develop a balance disorder, resulting in our inability to maintain standing erectly. 

Some people who have negative balance issues may become dizzy, feel lightheaded, have trouble reading or seeing, feel nauseous, possibly vomit, have diarrhea, changes in blood pressure, feel anxious and afraid, or may even panic. As a result of these symptoms they may become very tired, feel sad or depressed, and may experience a lack of concentration for everyday tasks.

Disorders of balance may be caused by health issues, be a side effect of some medications, or may be caused by inner ear problems.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of imbalance, a visit to your doctor for a check-up is definitely in order.

It would be helpful to your doctor if you could keep a record of how frequently you have trouble keeping your balance, how you feel during these episodes, names and doses of all the medications that you are taking, and if you have fallen.  Ask questions of your doctor and write down his/her instructions.

Unfortunately as we age our systems are slower to react to stimulation, often resulting in poor balance, and thus an increased risk of tripping and falling. It is noted that one in three adults aged 65 and older will fall each year.

To help reduce injury from lack of balance, avoid walking in the dark, and wear low heeled shoes .  It would be helpful to install handrails in your home to increase your safety and security. Marnau offers a continuous handrail system that can be installed throughout your home; in hallways, stairs, bathrooms, etc...