Tim's Corner

Gait Abnormality and Vestibular Dysfunction

Written by Tim Kauffman, PhD, PT

Gait is the type or style of walking and it can be abnormal for a variety of causes such as nerve injury, amputations, fractures or diseases like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease or cerebral palsy. As we age, a host of changes can lead to an abnormality of gait and increase the risk of falls. Our research has shown that persons over the age of 65 years have an underlying factor in the their risky style of walking and that is vestibular dysfunction. This is one of our balance control systems and involves the semi-circular canels in our ears. This system becomes less effective as we age and contributes to unsteady gait.

Vertebral Compression Fractures and Balance

Written by Tim Kauffman, PhD, PT

Vertebral Compression Fractures are significant health problems across the world. There are estimated to be about 700,000 fractures in the US each year, some of them are silent and painless but others are painful and may lead to adverse postural changes and even early death . Low bone mass is a significant factor. Our research suggests that these fractures may be associated with vestibular dysfunction and may increase the risk of falls. Physical therapy can offset some of the detrimental effects and facilitate recovery and enhance quality of life.

 

Life expectancy

Written by Tim Kauffman, PhD, PT

Life expgenu varusectancy for women is decreasing since 1997 in 850 counties in the US according to research published in the journal, Population Health Metrics. The authors were uncertain as to the cause but they attributed the change to smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and other behaviors/conditions that lead to early deaths.

Upcoming Events