Dizziness and Balance – It’s a Three Legged Stool

Dr. Jacob Burrows, Au.D., FAAA
Doctor of Audiology

Balance is achieved and maintained by a complex set of sensorimotor control systems that include sensory input from vision (sight), proprioception (touch), and the vestibular system (Inner ear- motion, equilibrium). These three systems are the legs to our personal “balance stool”.

Balance is the ability to maintain the body’s center of mass over its base of support.  A properly functioning balance system allows humans to see clearly while moving, identify orientation with respect to gravity, determine direction and speed of movement, and make automatic postural adjustments to maintain posture and stability in various conditions and activities. Injury, disease, or the aging process can affect one or more of these components.

 When we are young it is easy to blame sudden falls on environmental factors, such as loose carpets, slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or just plain recklessness! But as we grow older, a sudden fall can raise the question that something might be wrong. Loss of balance and mobility are not inevitable as we grow older, but sudden falls in older individuals are a concern because the incidence of balance problems is known to increase significantly with age. The risk for serious injury increases as well. The good news is that many individuals at risk for falls can be identified and helped.

Advanced Hearing & Balance Specialists has provided the area’s most trusted hearing and balance services for many years. With offices in 10 communities throughout Southern Utah and Nevada, we make it convenient for you to receive the highest levels of care. We support research and development of the newest hearing technologies and treatment for hearing loss and balance disorders.  We always put our patient’s concerns first, matching each individual’s needs with the treatments and tools which fit their lifestyle.  For an appointment with a Doctor of Audiology at any one of our 10 locations, call 435-688-8866 or 800-548-0356. For more information see http://www.hearingaiddoctor.com/.