The Optimal Body 44 | Losing Balance? Challenging Your Balance Systems
Think balance exercises are only for the elderly? Join Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom as they explain how balance is important for everyone and why. Listen in to hear some balance tests, targeting three main systems of balance, to see if you can pass. How was it? Struggling? Find out how you can strengthen these skills and create a more sustainable future for your body.
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What You Will Learn in this PT Pearl:
02:04 – Why balance is so important
04:08 – Why it is important to try and understand different balance tests
06:04 – The three systems of balance
08:09 – How to address problems with vestibular system - Doc Jen’s personal story with BPPV
13:13 – System number three explained
14:18 – The goal behind these tests - Understanding how these systems work within your body
16:04 – How to practically explore what system you rely on the most
19:48 – How a soft tissue injury can come into play for balance training
20:41 – Strategies PTs use to target hip muscles, avoid falling injuries, and uncover what you’re relying on
23:20 – Why a variety of exercises are needed, not just strength training, in your weekly routine
24:21 – How to challenge the vestibular system
25:00 – How to integrate all of these tests - How they have the potential of decreasing your pain
To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/vYJp9ZcQ4Eo
Items mentioned in this episode include:
Balance System Tests: https://www.pthaven.com/page/show/1149588
Research Citations:
Gordon, L. (2017, February 01). Understanding the 3 Balance Systems. From https://www.gordonphysicaltherapy.com/understanding-the-3-balance-systems/
The Human Balance System. (2020, September 02). From https://vestibular.org/article/what-is-vestibular/the-human-balance-system/the-human-balance-system/
Full show notes available at https://jen.health/podcast/44
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