Why Balance Therapy Is Essential After a Concussion or Head Injury

Balance therapy is a specific type of rehabilitation that focuses on improving stability, limiting dizziness, and reducing the risk of falls. It can be a helpful treatment option for individuals with a wide range of balance issues and related neurological conditions. Even for those without existing balance issues, balance therapy is essential following a concussion or other head injury. Here’s why.

Understanding Concussions and Head Injuries

A concussion is a mild form of a traumatic brain injury that can occur from a jolt or impact to the head. If you’ve experienced a concussion or other head injury, you may experience a variety of symptoms, including:

• Headache, nausea, and fatigue
• Balance issues, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Disorientation or confusion
• Issues with memory and concentration
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Blurred vision

Concussions and other head injuries can occur from impact sports, car accidents, falling down, and other scenarios that cause a sudden jolt to the brain. In some cases, the symptoms of a concussion or head injury may be mild and dissipate within a few days. However, if symptoms are more severe or worsen over time, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

Balance Therapy for Head Injuries

If your concussion or head injury symptoms include issues with balance or dizziness, balance therapy is essential. Your balance issues may include vertigo, lightheadedness, disorientation, a feeling of floating, or feeling like you’re going to fall. Balance issues may sometimes go unnoticed at first, as more severe symptoms like headaches and nausea are more intense. Balance therapy can help address these symptoms and reduce the risk of falling and re-injuring yourself in the future.

What Is Balance Therapy?

Balance therapy is a form of physical therapy that works to rehabilitate the vestibular system. This system is located in the inner ear and parts of the brain, which is why it’s often affected when an individual experiences a concussion or other head injury. Balance therapy may include various exercises, including eye movement control, balance retraining, and stretching or strengthening movements. Some specific examples of exercises used in balance therapy include:

• Single-leg stand and feet-together stand – These are examples of static balancing exercises in which you stand still, helping to build a strong foundation for balance.
• Shifting weight from side to side and heel-toe walks – These dynamic movements help to build balance with movement.

Your balance therapist will work with you based on your specific balance issues and the severity of your symptoms. You’ll likely build up to more complex exercises that help you progress with your treatment.

Learn More With Autumn Oak Speech, Voice, and Hearing

Autumn Oak Speech, Voice, and Hearing is your source for hearing and speech therapy in Friendswood, Texas. If you’re experiencing balance issues due to a head injury or any other cause, you can find the diagnostic services and care you need with our experienced professionals. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of balance therapy after a concussion or to schedule an appointment.