Balance and gait are inextricably linked because they can impact one another.  The goal of physical therapy is to determine contributing factors that put a person at risk for a fall. Poor balance may be slowing reflexes, which make moving around seem more strenuous than it is. By the same token, poor posture, weak core strength, and dysfunctional gait can throw off those reflexes.

In fact, the balance and gait systems both rely to some extent on a complex number of body systems that include the inner ear, the eyes, the joint-muscle-nerve system, and even cognitive functions. Therapy works with all of these systems to keep them functioning in harmony.

Gait and balance training have a range of benefits, with avoiding injuries being at the top of the list. Beyond lessening your chances of falling or feeling dizzy, you’re also more likely to feel confident with your footing. In addition, those aches and pains from poor posture are likely to decrease as well.