Conditions We Treat
There are many types of balance problems, which can be caused by different medical conditions. ACMC's Hearing & Balance Center uses a multidisciplinary team of providers to identify the source of the problem and the best treatment approach. Here is a brief list of possible conditions that we treat:
Dizziness or Vertigo
- Dizziness or motion sensitivity with or without Migraine Condition
- Dizziness due to age related degeneration of the vestibular system
- History of one or more falls due to vertigo or dizziness, especially in the elderly
- Stroke & brain injury related dizziness
- Vertigo due to Benign Parozysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Vertigo or dizziness due to diseases and infections
- Dizziness from cervical spine conditions
Balance/Gait Problems
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Gait or balance disorders in patients in where a neurological evaluation is insufficient to explain symptoms
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Post-aminoglycoside therapy, chemotherapy, or inner ear surgery with persistent symptoms
- Orthopedic problems
- Stroke & brain injury related balance problems
- Vestibular disorders
Falls Prevention
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injury in the United States, and falls among older adults can have especially serious consequences. Loss of independence, broken hips, and traumatic brain injuries are just a few. Recent research has shown the fear of falling alone can actually increase a person's risk of falling.
This program is designed for people who are at moderate to high risk of falling. People with previous falls, impaired balance or mobility, poor vision, reduced muscle strength, and home safety issues are included in those at risk. The program includes an assessment; education on how to avoid falls and reduce risk factors; an exercise program to improve strength, balance, and mobility; and a home hazard assessment and reduction of environmental hazards.
A fall is considered a sudden, unintentional change in position causing an individual to land at a lower level, on an object, the floor, or the ground, other than as a consequence of sudden onset paralysis, epilectic seizures, or overwhelming external force.
Use the tests below to determine your risk of falling (for those living independently):
- Balance Self Test
- Sit to Stand Test