Balance & Vestibular Clinic

Finger Lakes Health physical therapists trained in Vestibular/Balance disorders may be able to help you regain your equilibrium. We offer a comprehensive balance assessment with state-of-the-art technology, individualized exercise programs and treatment, and a dynamic team-oriented approach.

Physical Risk Factors: 

• Age greater than 60  
• Cognitive impairments  
• Visual Impairments  
• Muscle weakness  
• Gait and balance disturbances  
• Fall history 

Medical Risk Factors  

• Multiple medications  
• Orthostatic Hypotension  
• Stroke  
• Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)  
• Parkinson's Disease  
• Arthritis  
• Osteoporosis 

Things to look for:  

• Dizziness at the hair-dresser or dentist  
• The need to hold onto furniture or walls  
• Consistently stumbling or loss of balance  
• Rolling over in bed or doing housework produces "dizziness"  
• Avoiding certain positions  
• Difficulty walking on gravel or grass 

Symptoms:  

• Sensation of dizziness or vertigo  
• Falling or feeling of falling  
• Lightheadedness or feeling woozy  
• Problems reading or difficulty seeing  
• Disorientation 

Tips to lower your risk of falling: 

• Eliminate clutter. Remove throw rugs and runners from walkways.  
• Use assistive and adaptive devices, such as railings, grab bars, a walker or a cane.  
• Make sure all areas have adequate lighting during the day and at night.  
• Control pets (large or small), as they are easy to trip over.  
• Increase your physical conditioning.  
• Seek professional help with concerns, and don't wait until you injure yourself. 

Referral Process: 

A physician's referral is required for this service. Contact Geneva General Hospital's Garnsey Rehabilitation Center for an appointment or for more information at (315) 787-4570.