Conditions · Columbia, MD
Balance & Fall Prevention
Feeling unsteady or afraid of falling? Balance and walking problems aren't an inevitable part of aging — they can be treated.
Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults. Most balance and walking problems have several contributing factors — weakness, joint stiffness, vision, inner-ear changes, other medical conditions — and each one can be addressed.
Our approach is a thorough, multifactor evaluation followed by a supervised, customized program. Many of our patients go on to walk confidently and live independently after balance and gait training.
Common symptoms
- Feeling unsteady or holding onto walls and furniture
- A recent fall or near-fall
- Difficulty walking, shuffling or slowing down
- Dizziness or lightheadedness when moving
- Fear of falling that's limiting your activity
How we treat it
- A thorough balance, strength and walking assessment
- Individualized balance training
- Leg and core strengthening
- Gait (walking) training, including assistive devices if needed
- Home safety and fall prevention education
Frequently asked questions
Is losing balance just part of getting older?
No. Balance and walking problems usually have specific, treatable causes — weakness, stiffness, inner-ear or nerve changes, or medications. Addressing them early helps you stay independent.
My parent fell. Should they see a physical therapist?
Yes — a fall is one of the strongest predictors of another fall. An evaluation identifies what contributed and starts a plan to prevent the next one. In Maryland, a physician's prescription isn't required to see a physical therapist, though some insurance plans require one.
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Let's find the source of your pain
Send a request and our front desk will call you to set up your one-on-one evaluation.