Do you worry about losing your balance?
It’s a concern we hear often in our clinics.
What many patients don’t realize is that poor balance isn’t inevitable with aging.
With practice, you can improve your balance and prevent falls.
Improve Your Balance
In the video below, Physical Therapist Chris Ponichtera, PT DPT, shows you a simple exercise progression to practice for better balance.
One of the most common reasons people lose their balance is because the muscles needed to help them stay upright are weak.
If your legs aren’t supporting your back, your core isn’t engaged, or your muscles are stiff, balance can suffer.
Like many things in life, when it comes to improving your balance, practice makes perfect.
By practicing certain exercises, you can train and build strength in the muscles that contribute to balance.
Simple Balance Progression
Stand up straight. For safety, it’s preferable to do so in a doorway or with a couch or table next to you.
Put your right leg in front of your left in perfectly straight line.
If this is a challenge, you can modify by putting your right heel back a little bit, not quite in that perfect line.
With knees slightly bent, make a fist with your hands, and pump your arms back and forth. Using your right hand as your marker, count out and complete 20 repetitions.
Reset yourself so that your left foot is in front of your right. Complete 20 repetitions.
Return to your original stance with your right foot in front of your left. Keeping your hands in a fist, pump your arms across your body. Complete 20 repetitions.
Reset yourself so that your left foot is in front of your right. Complete 20 cross-body repetitions.
Want help improving your balance?
If you’re struggling with your balance and would like a customized plan to feel and move your best, our Physical and Occupational Therapists can help.
Treatment is covered by insurance, no referral is needed to start, and with flexible appointments, you can find an appointment fast that works with your schedule.
Call 716-458-1990 or click the button below to schedule at one of our many locations throughout Western New York.