Balance and fall prevention are within the scope of physical therapy practice, in which licensed professionals prescribe strengthening, stability, and motor control exercises to enhance the physical and neurological factors that keep us upright and steady.

At Vita, our physical therapists are movement experts who specialize in gait training, fall recovery, and injury prevention. They also conduct balance screenings and provide recommendations for caregivers, home safety, and appropriate assistive devices.

Static vs. Dynamic Balance

Static balance refers to the ability to maintain a position in unchanging conditions, such as sitting at the edge of a chair or standing on one foot on level ground. Static balance becomes dynamic when the base of support changes or moves with the individual. Common examples of dynamic balance include walking, climbing stairs, or squatting. Both static and dynamic balance are fundamental in all activities of daily living and are crucial for proactive and reactive balance.

Proactive vs. Reactive Balance

Proactive (anticipatory) balance occurs when we consciously or unconsciously plan for a situation, such as reaching for a cup on a high shelf, bending over to pick up a dropped item, or opening a car door.

Reactive balance is most noticeable when we are startled, and our body must take immediate action without any prior notice. Since the specifics of the perturbation are unknown, improving reactive balance alone is challenging. Physical therapists are trained in patient safety and will select exercises appropriate for your balance level that are functional and realistic.

Vestibular Balance

The vestibular system plays a major role in our ability to balance. Information from our ears, eyes, and feet is integrated into our sense of awareness or proprioception and significantly contributes to our overall coordination. The vestibular system can be challenged and strengthened to adapt to the demands placed on your body. Physical therapy treatment typically incorporates positional changes, different types of surfaces, and cognition/multi-tasking demands.

Independence and Longevity 

• If multiple falls occur within a span of 6 months, the risk of injury and fatality increases by 36-41%.

Healthy Aging 

• More than 1 in 4 adults aged 65 years and older report at least 1 fall in a year, and 10.2% of those falls result in injury.

Save Money by Decreasing Expensive Medical Bills 

• Reducing trips to the ER or the need for additional surgeries due to secondary injuries after a fall can result in significant cost savings.