Balance Problems Specialist

What are common balance problems?

While aging patients aren’t the only people who experience balance problems, they’re more likely to sustain serious and long-term injuries as the result of a fall. Some of the most common balance problems include:

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV is a prevalent inner ear disorder caused by head injuries, ear infections, and aging. You experience severe vertigo when you move your head. 

Stroke

A stroke can cause a variety of physical symptoms, such as muscle weakness, spasticity, and contraction, that can increase your risk of falling.

Ménière’s disease

Ménière’s disease is another inner ear disorder that can cause vertigo and hearing loss. It often begins in early or middle adulthood but can persist as you age, especially when left untreated. 

Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is inflammation in your inner ear that causes balance problems. You might develop labyrinthitis if you get the flu. 

Ramsay Hunt syndrome

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a complication of shingles. When you have shingles, the virus can attack the facial nerves near your ear, which leads to pain, hearing loss, and balance problems. 

Chronic conditions

Chronic conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease can also cause balance problems. Diabetes complications, including neuropathy and foot ulcers, can disrupt your balance as well. 

When should I talk to a doctor about my balance problems?

You should make an appointment with Dr. Rubin if you experience any signs of a balance disorder such as:

• Dizziness or vertigo
• Feeling like you’re going to fall
• Falling
• Feeling lightheaded or faint
• Blurred vision

Your symptoms might come and go, but you should never ignore them. If you fall, Dr. Rubin evaluates your balance as part of your exam so he can incorporate the appropriate treatment to address why you fell, as well as treatment for any related injuries. 

How do you treat balance problems?

Dr. Rubin offers personalized therapeutic programs to address the physical factors that contribute to your balance problem. He might recommend physical therapy to improve your strength and flexibility, enhancing your core strength and balance. 

Dr. Rubin might also recommend joint injections to heal painful joints or regenerative medicine to accelerate tissue repair. In some cases, he might suggest acupuncture to address neuropathic pain and muscle imbalances. 

If you’re concerned about a balance problem or want to reduce your risk of falling, call Dr. Rubin’s office or make an appointment online today.