Embrace summer balance safety
Michigan summers offer opportunities for all ages to be active outside. But it’s important you embrace summer safely! Specifically, notice if your balance is “a thing”. Balance isn’t just for our silver-haired friends; issues can start as early as your 40s and the most important thing you can do is address it before it becomes a problem.
How do you know if your balance could become an issue?
Below you’ll find 3 things to consider that will help you embrace summer balance safely.
#1 Age
Studies have shown that if you’re over the age of 40, your vestibular system function starts to decline. Your vestibular system is a sensory system that creates a sense of balance and spatial orientation to coordinate eye and body movement with balance. The system consists of several structures in the inner ear that monitor movements of the head, detect gravity and send signals to the brain causing your body to adjust and attempt to stay upright. So sadly, if you’re 40 or older, add balance to your checkboxes of something you must be aware of.
#2 Second thoughts
When we are young, we don’t think twice about doing activities that require balance, strength, or flexibility…we do them. However, if you’re thinking about how you will accomplish or must be cautious while doing the below activities, you might want to schedule a free assessment and talk with a PT about your balance.
- Walking in sand
- Walking on a trail (woodchips, roots, gravel)
- Walking on uneven ground (sidewalk cracks)
- Paddleboarding or kayaking
- Getting on or off a boat
- Walking on a dock
- Walking after it rains
#3 Mini balance test
Can you stand up, close your eyes and balance on one foot for 30 seconds? This simple, mini-test is a great way to evaluate your balance. If you are wavering or unable to complete the task, come on in!
Let us help!
Balance issues, if addressed early, don’t have to lead to anything serious. Falling is the result if balance issues aren’t taken care of. Trust us, you do not want to be falling! Falling can lead to serious injury and even death. There is nothing to be nervous or embarrassed about…we take balance seriously and we would love to be able to help you enjoy your Michigan summer to the max.