Marshall Health Network Balance Center

We use our balance constantly to conduct most of our daily activities (walking, turning, bending, lifting), but loss of balance and mobility are not inevitable as we grow older. Dizziness and balance disorders are common and can affect people of any age, gender, race or socioeconomic group.

Symptoms may include:

• Whirling dizziness, with or without nausea
• Lightheadedness
• Unsteadiness
• Imbalance when walking

Phil Simpson, OT, conducts an assessment on a patient using the Bertec Balance Advantage™ System.

Balance difficulties are serious and can cause significant problems in conducting daily activities and leading a normal life. The Balance Center uses the latest tools and techniques to identify the cause of a patient’s dizziness or instability. One of those tools is the Bertec Balance Advantage™ System, a cutting-edge immersive virtual reality system that tests the strength of a patient’s balance systems. The Bertec simulates real-life activities and then presents balance challenges during those activities. In addition to assessment, the system can also be used for treatment.

In most cases, balance can be improved through a specialized treatment program personalized just for you. The type of therapy the Balance Center performs is vestibular rehabilitation, one of the most effective forms of physical rehabilitation and the gold standard for treating patients with dizziness and balance issues.

The Marshall Health Network Balance Center is located within St. Mary’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, 2841 Fifth Ave., in Huntington. A physician referral is required to schedule an appointment.

For more information, call St. Mary’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Services at 304.526.1333.