Balance, perturbations, and neuroplasticity….
A lot of people are concerned about losing their balance and have a fear of falling. So, what can we do to improve our balance? Let’s start with some basic exercises in standing.
1) Single leg standing:
Stand in front of a counter top or other stable surface. Gently place your hands on the counter top for safety. Lift one foot off of the floor so you are standing on one leg. Don’t rest the lifted leg on the standing leg, just let hang relaxed in the air. You can lift your hands off of the counter, but it’s there if you need it to steady yourself. See if you can balance on one leg for 30-60 seconds.You may feel your ankle or hip wobble a bit, but that’s fine….you are actually training the nerve endings (proprioceptors) in your feet, ankles, knees and hips how...