Balance Re-education

Question 1

Rationale behind balance re-education

Answer 1

Bring centre of gravity around base of support & closer to stability limits.
Consists of multiplanar movements

Question 2

Physiological effects of treatment

Answer 2

Evokes righting reactions needed to maintain stability

Question 3

What structures does balance re-education affect?

Answer 3

Proprioceptive & vestibular system

Question 4

Describe the process of balance re-education

Answer 4

1) Introduce
2) Explain procedure & benefits for informed consent
3) start with reaching exercises with wide BoS & stable surface
4) progress (reduce BoS & unstable surface)
5) reactive/dynamic exercises - throw & catch, progress speed
6) progress to stand, narrow leg width, add rotation & variety (throw catch, kick)
7) foot placement (tightrope walking / walking on spots)
8) close eyes

Question 5

Contraindications/precautions

Answer 5

Have a second person present to ensure patient safety (prevent falls)

If standing, orientate plinth to side of patient if patient feels its necessary to hold it

Question 6

How would you document this?

Answer 6

Date, Time, Patient name
Explanation of procedure & gaining informed consent
Patient progress in sitting - able to sit & reach, reduce BoS, righting reaction presence, able to increase speed & complete more difficult movements
Same in standing
Performance with eyes closed
Fatigue quickly?
Adverse affects?
Sign