Balance disorders are often the result of a head injury or trauma. You may have difficulty maintaining balance and stability, feel dizzy or even like you're floating or spinning, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Balance disorders may be treated in a variety of ways, including the use of balance retraining exercises, regular exercise and medication.
Regular Exercise
Engaging in regular, low-impact physical activity, such as walking or water exercise, may be useful in improving your balance and coordination after a traumatic head injury, according to the American College of Sports Injury. When beginning an aerobic exercise program, consult your doctor to discuss the types of activities that are safe and beneficial for your specific condition. If you have difficulty balancing, ask a friend to exercise with you to provide support and prevent falls if you find yourself unsure or faltering.
Bilateral Exercise
Specific exercises that improve balance and coordination for head trauma patients should involve both sides of the body, according to recreation therapist Elizabeth Best-Martini and fitness instructor Kim A. Botenhagen-DiGenova in their book, "Exercise for Frail Elders." Exercises that help take the focus off the center of the body can also improve balance. Tossing and catching a mid-sized inflatable ball with a friend can be a beneficial exercise for increasing balance, stability and coordination. Focus on catching and throwing the ball from the side of your body that is most affected.
Step Ups
Stepping up and down on a step bench or the bottom step of a flight of stairs can be a beneficial exercise for improving balance, according to author Kelly Mixon in an article for Disaboom, a, website providing information and resources for people with disabilities. Hold on to the banister for support. Step your right foot up on the step and balance on your right leg for few seconds, then step back down. Step up on your left leg and balance on your left leg for a few seconds, then step back down.
Standing Balance Exercise
The standing balance exercise can help improve balance help prevent falls, according to the Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and hold on to the back of a sturdy chair with both hands. Lift one leg out to the side and slightly off the ground. Try to hold this position for a count of 10, then release and repeat on your opposite leg.
References
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: Balance Disorders
- Disabled-World.com: Traumatic Brain Injury and Related Information
- Medscape.com: Exercising Following a Brain Injury: Prescription for Health
- "Exercise for Frail Elders"; Elizabeth Best-Martini and Kim A. Botenhagen-DiGenova; 2003
- "Disaboom"; Top Three Exercises for Traumatic Brain Injury; Kelly Mixon
- "Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire"; Keeping Your Balance: 3 Exercises to Improve Stability; September 15, 2009
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