BALANCE & DIZZY CARE
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THE BALANCE CENTER
Did you know that falls are the leading cause of death in individuals age 65+? Did you know that 35% of adults over age 40 will have vestibular dysfunction at some point in their life? Did you also know that it is in an audiologist’s scope of practice to diagnose and manage vestibular/balance disorders? Many balance disorders can be helped with appropriate testing by an audiologist and treatment by a physical therapist who specializes in vestibular rehabilitation.
The Balance Center is a partnership between Audiology Services of West Virginia and Mountain River Physical Therapy to offer specialized vestibular testing and rehabilitation right here at home! Some symptoms of balance disorders include dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, fatigue, visual changes, tinnitus, hearing loss, nausea, vomiting, etc. If you have had any of the above symptoms, are afraid of falling, or have fallen, talk to your physician and schedule an evaluation at The Balance Center today!
Understanding Dizziness, Vertigo & Imbalance
Balance and the Vestibular System
The medical term for the part of the inner ear involved with balance is called the vestibular system. The vestibular system is an organ located within the inner ear which relays information to the brain about balance and orientation of the head and body. Balance is a complex interaction which requires input from our vestibular system, in addition to our vision and the sensation from our feet, muscles, and joints. If any one of these systems are not working properly, you will suffer loss of balance.
Balance Disorders
Balance disorders fall into two main categories:
- The first is dizziness, vertigo, or motion intolerance. This condition may be caused or worsened by rapid head movement, turning too quickly, walking, or riding in a car. These symptoms can be acute or sharp attacks lasting for seconds or sometimes for several hours.
- The second is a persistent sense of imbalance or unsteadiness. Some people refer to this as a loss of surefootedness. There can be many causes of dizziness and imbalance, with the largest percentage coming from the vestibular system.
A balance disorder may be caused by viral or bacterial infections in the ear, a head injury, or blood circulation disorders that affect the inner ear or brain. Many people experience problems with their sense of balance as they get older. Balance problems and dizziness also can result from taking certain medications. However, many balance disorders can begin suddenly and with no obvious cause. Your physician may have referred you to our clinic as the balance experts who will help in the process of determining possible causes and best treatment options.
Neurodiagnostic Testing
Depending on your condition, your physician may recommend evaluation of the hearing and/or balance centers as they are all part of the inner ear. All testing is easy, comfortable and use advanced technology.