Course Description:

Balance dysfunction can create cascading effects on the individual, healthcare system, and society which highlights the importance of identifying key risk factors in order to prevent injury and falls. The complexity of the balance system requires a systematic approach in order to comprehensively assess its function and effect on other body systems. Selecting balance outcome measures that can quantify changes in static and dynamic sitting and standing balance will assist the clinician in the identification of a balance dysfunction. Consequently, the ability to accurately analyze findings from balance outcome measures will allow the physical therapist to prescribe effective treatment interventions to address impairments and improve health outcomes. This course will explore the burden of falls with common risk factors, review the balance system and its components, and introduce various outcome measures in order to enable the clinician to create a comprehensive analysis regarding a patient’s functional mobility, confidence, and fall risk.