Why You Should Care About Your Balance

Balance is defined as the body’s ability to maintain its centre of mass over the support base. More importantly, it is the body’s ability to do this while moving. In dynamic exercises and movements, such as sport, balance plays a key role.

Here, the health professionals at Mimico Physiotherapy discuss what enables the body to maintain balance, why it is essential, and how physiotherapy can help you improve it. 

Various body systems work together to maintain balance—the vestibular, ocular, and somatosensory (proprioceptive) systems. The vestibular system detects head movements through nerve receptors in the inner ear. The visual system is vital for body balance since it allows you to see the modifications that need to be made. The somatosensory system detects changes in pressure on the soles of your feet and adjusts accordingly.

Continuous input from these systems enables the body to maintain an effective posture. When these systems function together, they can respond to environmental changes that may upset the equilibrium.

The importance of balance in individuals of all activity levels cannot be stressed enough. Studies have established that balance training and improving postural control can help athletes avoid injuries. 

Balance provides you with the foundation and confidence to move. This freedom is essential for both physical and mental health. Without this, you may be unable to carry out routine everyday tasks, so it’s important to incorporate balance training into your daily life and rehabilitation or activity programs. 

The core muscles are divided into two groups: inner core and outer core. The inner core muscles are the muscles that support your core and are linked to your spine. When you need to move your body from point A to point B, the outer core muscles work together with the inner core muscles to help you do so. 

Core stability refers to the inner core muscles. These muscles help to keep your spine stable. On the other hand, core strength refers to the outer core muscles, which enable you to move more efficiently.

Physical therapy trains both your inner and outer core muscles so that you improve your balance and mobility.

One question we are often asked is how to improve balance. Fortunately, physiotherapy can help.

A physiotherapy evaluation is followed by a balanced exercise program, which works to improve balance and function. Training and certified physiotherapists aim to put the vestibular and musculoskeletal systems to the test. This enhances the body's capacity to maintain posture and centre of gravity. In addition, the exercises improve muscle reaction speed and joint proprioception—the body’s ability to recognize where its joints and limbs are in space.

Physiotherapy can also help you build core strength with simple core exercises. For instance, many physical therapists will prescribe the "drawing in technique," which is a basic and quick exercise.

To begin this exercise, stand up straight with your hips aligned with the rest of your body. Suck in your stomach as though pulling your belly button in toward your spine. Holding this position, stroll around.

Your core muscles should be able to maintain this position for at least 30 seconds. If you are out of shape, you may need to work up to this time. This should be a painless workout, so if you experience any discomfort, stop immediately. It is a quick, effective and simple way to build your core strength. 

If you are looking to move without worry, we are here to help. 

Call 647-351-4000 or visit our website to book an appointment for a physio consultation with a Mimico Physiotherapy professional today!