Think balance exercises are only for the elderly? Join Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom as they explain how balance is important for everyone and why.  Listen in to hear some balance tests, targeting three main systems of balance, to see if you can pass. How was it? Struggling? Find out how you can strengthen these skills and create a more sustainable future for your body.

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What You Will Learn in this PT Pearl:

02:04 – Why balance is so important

04:08 – Why it is important to try and understand different balance tests

06:04 – The three systems of balance

08:09 – How to address problems with vestibular system - Doc Jen’s personal story with BPPV

13:13 – System number three explained

14:18 – The goal behind these tests - Understanding how these systems work within your body

16:04 – How to practically explore what system you rely on the most

19:48 – How a soft tissue injury can come into play for balance training

20:41 – Strategies PTs use to target hip muscles, avoid falling injuries, and uncover what you’re relying on

23:20 – Why a variety of exercises are needed, not just strength training, in your weekly routine

24:21 – How to challenge the vestibular system

25:00 – How to integrate all of these tests - How they have the potential of decreasing your pain

To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/vYJp9ZcQ4Eo

Items mentioned in this episode include:

Balance System Tests: https://www.pthaven.com/page/show/1149588

Research Citations:

Gordon, L. (2017, February 01). Understanding the 3 Balance Systems. From https://www.gordonphysicaltherapy.com/understanding-the-3-balance-systems/

The Human Balance System. (2020, September 02). From https://vestibular.org/article/what-is-vestibular/the-human-balance-system/the-human-balance-system/

Full show notes available at https://jen.health/podcast/44

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