Loss of Balance - CAPS - Comprehensive Assessment of Postural Systems
What is CAPS? CAPS uses a diagnostic force platform and special software (ScreenTRACKTM) to assess balance function. This system is so unique it has been awarded 2 separate U.S. patents, one for its design and one for the way it works. Because of the CAPS extraordinary sensitivity it allows us to measure otherwise undetectable or imperceptible movements whilst someone appears to be standing still. From this information we are able to generate a report grading how efficient your balance systems are and your subsequent risk of falls, general musculoskeletal injury and the effect that your balance may be having on the rest of your health.
Why is balance so important? Good balance is the fundamental pre-requisite to everything your body does. This is not just limited to the control of muscles and joints but also your organs and glands. Your balance has far reaching effects on your body as a whole both emotionally and physically.Your brain needs to accurately pin point where you are in space instantly. If the accuracy or speed of this response is impaired the risk of injury and falls increases greatly. Additionally, we often see related problems in other body systems. A common example of this is the nausea, vomiting and emotional distress that so often accompanies motion sickness. Balance problems can also be the first sign of more serious problems such as brain tumours, dementia and diabetes.
But my balance is really good? This is something many people mistakenly believe. We have seen poor balance in people of all ages and from all levels of sporting ability. The reason many people don’t realise that their balance is off is because they rely heavily on their visual system to compensate. Unfortunately visual systems can be slow, easily confused and on their own are not enough to keep you injury free.
What are the signs that my balance system might be off? Signs can be a subtle as: generalised fatigue, recurrent minor muscle strains and joint sprains, clumsiness, postural and gait changes, feeling vague, an inability to focus, muscle imbalances, and joint misalignments.They can be as diverse as: headaches, childhood delayed development, poor reading and writing skills, eye strain, poor hand eye co-ordination, nausea and digestive conditions and anxiety And severe as: depression, recurrent falls and accidents, loss of confidence especially in unfamiliar environments, dizziness and fainting and balance related diseases like Meniere’s and Vertigo (BPPV).
What systems are responsible for good balance then? There are 3 systems responsible for good balance. They are:Vestibular (the inner ear canals) Proprioceptive (joint and muscle receptors) & Visual systems.
How do we treat balance disorders? How we treat balance disorders depends upon which system or systems are causing your problems. Treatment can be a combination structural and neurological balancing with chiropractic adjustments, neurological re-training and specific exercises. The CAPS force platform provides us with a unique way recalibrating a person’s balance systems using interactive biofeedback programs. It is essential for re-integrating proper function of the vestibular (inner ear), proprioceptive (joint position sense) and visual systems which are so important. Treatment costs will vary from person to person based on the nature and extent of the problem.
How do I get a screening done? To get a screening done you need to make an appointment with our reception staff. There are 2 options here: 1) A basic CAPS screening takes approximately 15 min including the time put aside to go through your basic report. Cost $60 2) A full and comprehensive CAPS assessment is done over two 30min appointments. The findings from this exam in conjunction with other clinical findings from previous chiropractic exams will form the basis for your rehabilitation program. Cost $250.
Why is balance so important? Good balance is the fundamental pre-requisite to everything your body does. This is not just limited to the control of muscles and joints but also your organs and glands. Your balance has far reaching effects on your body as a whole both emotionally and physically.Your brain needs to accurately pin point where you are in space instantly. If the accuracy or speed of this response is impaired the risk of injury and falls increases greatly. Additionally, we often see related problems in other body systems. A common example of this is the nausea, vomiting and emotional distress that so often accompanies motion sickness. Balance problems can also be the first sign of more serious problems such as brain tumours, dementia and diabetes.
But my balance is really good? This is something many people mistakenly believe. We have seen poor balance in people of all ages and from all levels of sporting ability. The reason many people don’t realise that their balance is off is because they rely heavily on their visual system to compensate. Unfortunately visual systems can be slow, easily confused and on their own are not enough to keep you injury free.
What are the signs that my balance system might be off? Signs can be a subtle as: generalised fatigue, recurrent minor muscle strains and joint sprains, clumsiness, postural and gait changes, feeling vague, an inability to focus, muscle imbalances, and joint misalignments.They can be as diverse as: headaches, childhood delayed development, poor reading and writing skills, eye strain, poor hand eye co-ordination, nausea and digestive conditions and anxiety And severe as: depression, recurrent falls and accidents, loss of confidence especially in unfamiliar environments, dizziness and fainting and balance related diseases like Meniere’s and Vertigo (BPPV).
What systems are responsible for good balance then? There are 3 systems responsible for good balance. They are:Vestibular (the inner ear canals) Proprioceptive (joint and muscle receptors) & Visual systems.
How do we treat balance disorders? How we treat balance disorders depends upon which system or systems are causing your problems. Treatment can be a combination structural and neurological balancing with chiropractic adjustments, neurological re-training and specific exercises. The CAPS force platform provides us with a unique way recalibrating a person’s balance systems using interactive biofeedback programs. It is essential for re-integrating proper function of the vestibular (inner ear), proprioceptive (joint position sense) and visual systems which are so important. Treatment costs will vary from person to person based on the nature and extent of the problem.
How do I get a screening done? To get a screening done you need to make an appointment with our reception staff. There are 2 options here: 1) A basic CAPS screening takes approximately 15 min including the time put aside to go through your basic report. Cost $60 2) A full and comprehensive CAPS assessment is done over two 30min appointments. The findings from this exam in conjunction with other clinical findings from previous chiropractic exams will form the basis for your rehabilitation program. Cost $250.
