One of the greatest predictors for success with balance and vestibular therapy is centered around how much challenge a patient can be provided. Ask any therapist and they will tell you that using a gait belt is NOT a fool proof technique, and that the degree of challenge is restricted based on fear of the patient falling. Not only does the therapist restrict challenge based on this fear, but the patient also restricts their participation due to an overwhelming fear of falling themselves.

We can challenge a patient appropriately to achieve the best possible results with balance and vestibular function without the patient having a fear of falling.

The degree of challenge can be elevated to a level that promotes gains in balance corrections and compensatory strategies. EVEN BETTER, the therapist can work without concern of a patient falling on them or being at risk of getting injured themselves. That’s a win-win.