Neurological Gait & Balance Problems
It is easy to take for granted simple actions like standing up or walking, but at Desert Care Network we understand the impact that gait and balance problems
cause in your daily life. Gait and balance problems in the elderly can cause falls that result in injury or fatality. Temporary disruptions to gait and balance can be caused by injury or trauma. When experiencing long-term gait and balance problems,
the origin is potentially neurological. The cerebellum, located at the back of the brain, controls:
- Balance
- Coordination
- Fine Muscle Control
- Posture
- Equilibrium
Gait and balance are interwoven functions; however, they possess distinctions worth defining. Balance disorders are associated with a feeling of spinning or unsteadiness. Gait issues cause abnormal movements when walking or running. These often become exaggerated with age. In addition to experiencing difficulty with walking or gaining steadiness, symptoms include:
- Lightheadedness
- Vertigo
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Double Vision
Diagnosing Gait & Balance Problems
Understanding your medical history and performing a physical exam are the first components of diagnosing and treating any gait or balance issues. Hearing tests, vision tests, and inner ear tests might be ordered. Imaging through an MRI or CT scan will provide more insight into the cause of the issue. Once the findings have been properly assessed, your doctor can ascertain an appropriate diagnosis and begin a plan of treatment based on your specific needs.
Treatment for Gait & Balance Problems
The treatment is highly dependent on the underlying cause of the problem. There are a wide variety of treatments for all issues which involve:
- Lifestyle Changes
- Medications
- Physical Therapy
- Surgery
Schedule Your Appointment
The medical staff at Desert Care Network is dedicated to helping you understand and navigate issues with gait or balance that you or our loved one may be experiencing. We are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care. Get in touch with us to schedule an appointment with a specialist from our team.