Imbalance

When I use the term imbalance, I'm referring to dizziness which is also referred to as vertigo.  It can be a light headedness, a sense of being unstable, the room may be spinning or the person may feel like they are spinning in a stationary room.

Imbalance or dizziness is reported by 70% of non-institutionalized people over the age of 65.  Balance experts report that all people are capable of improving their balance.  It is one area that there need not be a constant decline.

Here's  a simple test to see how good your balance is: stand on one foot.  You pass if you can do it for 30 sec (under age 60), 21 sec (60-69) and 14 sec (70 - 79).  Now try it with your eyes closed.  Do this where you can grab onto something or have someone to catch you.  I don't want you to hurt yourself doing this test.  Your balance is good if you can last 21 sec, 10 sec. or 5 sec. for the age groups listed above. Try it.  How did you do?

Balance is controlled by three systems in the body.  The vestibular system in the inner ear receives the most attention and when imbalance occurs it is almost always blamed on inner ear problems.  But the posture orientation and equilibrium system which is concentrated in the upper neck is probably of equal importance.  The third system is the visual system,  All three of these systems work together to keep our body balanced.  If any one is impaired the others attempt to take over to keep us balanced.  Dizziness occurs when these systems fail.

Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to have a profound effect on the posture system which is concentrated in the upper neck.  Many people with balance problems have benefited from receiving chiropractic care.  There are also procedures within the chiropractic scope of practice that can improve vestibular function as well, including exercises.

The big concern with imbalance is that it leads to falls.  As we all know, falls can result in serious injuries, particularly in the elderly.  I'll discuss fall prevention in my next post.