Dr. Rebecca Spiker, DPT, ATC
Many people know the phrase “if you don’t use it, you lose it” when it comes to strength training. But did you know that the same phrase also applies to your balance?
I have found that many people are scared to train their balance because they are fearful of losing their balance and falling. However, if we are not practicing the situations that make us unsteady (in a safe manner), we are only going to become more unsteady and fearful of falling. Our bodies will adapt and improve upon these situations that we find challenging now.
Another common mistake that I have come across while practicing is that people only train their balance in static (still or not moving) positions. How many times have you fallen from standing still? Probably, few to none. Falls typically occur when movement is involved; for example, reaching into a cabinet from a step stool, turning too quickly, missing a step, tripping over a rug, etc. Balance training should involve movement!
Starting a program to improve your balance may be an overwhelming task to do on your own for many reasons. Physical therapists are trained to examine the body systems that are responsible for balance and determine areas that may need a tune up. From there, a program will be designed to fit your specific needs to make you more steady, less fearful of falling, and more confident with recovering from the floor, well because some falls we just can’t avoid.
If you are still unsure if balance training is right for you, my recommendation is to see your primary care physician first. Your primary care physician is a great liaison to determine what type of services or specialists you may need to stay robust and doing the activities that you love.
