University of Mary Hardin-Baylorgraduate.umhb.edu/dpt/sites/graduate.umhb.edu.dpt/files... · Web...
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WORLD PHYSICAL THERAPY DAY DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY PROGRAM BALANCE What body systems are involved in balance? The ability to balance depends in large part on sensory, muscular and motor systems. The three most influential sensory systems are the visual, vestibular and somatosensory systems. Muscular strength also affects balance. Why is it important? Approximately 1 in 3 older adults fall each year. Falls are a significant cause of disability and are the leading cause of injury-related death in the older population. Preventing falls may help lower healthcare costs and improve quality of life for older adults. What do balance exercises entail? Balance exercises involve maintaining standing and postural stability under a variety of static and dynamic conditions.
Transcript of University of Mary Hardin-Baylorgraduate.umhb.edu/dpt/sites/graduate.umhb.edu.dpt/files... · Web...
WORLD PHYSICAL THERAPY DAY
DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY PROGRAM
BALANCE
What body systems are involved in balance? The ability to balance depends in large part on sensory,
muscular and motor systems. The three most influential sensory systems are the
visual, vestibular and somatosensory systems. Muscular strength also affects balance.
Why is it important? Approximately 1 in 3 older adults fall each year. Falls are a significant cause of disability and are the
leading cause of injury-related death in the older population.
Preventing falls may help lower healthcare costs and improve quality of life for older adults.
What do balance exercises entail? Balance exercises involve maintaining standing and
postural stability under a variety of static and dynamic conditions.
Activities in a balance-training program can include standing with one foot in front of the other to alter the base of support, shifting the body weight in different directions and lifting the feet from the floor.
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