In general, balance problems are usually sensorial, neurological or orthopedic in nature. We commonly treat a wide range of people suffering from inner ear disorders, head injuries, strokes, and sport injuries. The main focus of our program involves improving sensory integration to facilitate CNS adaptation, allowing the patient to regain balance control so they may again move about safely efficiently. Dizziness will cause 90 million people to see their doctors at some point pf their lives. When one of them is your patient, it could be the result of a balance or vestibular disorder. Generally, balance problems are caused by a sensory, neurological, orthopedic problem. Common causes include labyrinthitis, stroke, or neuropathy. Vestibular or balance disorders can often result from an inner-ear disturbance, trauma, inner-ear infection, nerve damage, or the effects of aging. Vestibular disorders include benign paroxysmal; positional vertigo (BPPV), caused by inner-ear debris, and unilateral or bilateral vestibular dysfunction, caused by weakness weakness within the patient's vestibular system. These disorders can be incredibly frightening for patients, disorienting them with symptoms such as: Dizziness Vertigo Oscillopsia Gait difficulties Nausea Visual Disturbances Nausea Visual disturbances Fatigue Impaired concentration and memory Headaches Muscle tension Sensitivity to noise and light The disabling effects of these symptoms often lead to depression or stress, exacerbating their condition. Florida Balance Centers, the first of its kind in South Florida, has been providing first- rate, specialized care for balance and vestibular disorders since 1992. Once a referral is made, our experienced therapists work together in a team approach with the referring physician and the patient to restore balance and equilibrium. Our thorough, state-of-the-art evaluation techniques include neuromuscular, functional-mobility, functional-vestibular, and positional-vertigo assessments, as well as a computerized balance analysis that provides results for same-day review. We also provide functional-outcome studies and reports throughout the entire course of each patient's treatment. Every year, one out of the three people over 65 suffers a fall. These falls cause 87% of all fractures, are one of the leading causes in injury and deaths in the elderly, and add up to more than $20 billion in hospitalization and other medical cost per year. Florida Balance Center can help your geriatric patients avoid these falls with our Fall Prevention Program. After screening your patients to determine their balance status, we'll use home safety techniques, assistive balance acids, and occupational therapy to teach them how to live in a safer, healthier environment. The specialists at Florida Balance Centers create highly individualized treatment plans on each patient's unique needs. Our balance therapy program includes vestibular rehabilitation, occupational therapy, patient education, lifestyle modifications, and coping strategies to deal with psychological effects of their condition. While significant traumas or central nervous system involvement can extend treatment, recovery is generally achieved in four to eight weeks.