It employs 15 people, and is expected to draw patients from throughout southwest Ohio, with a goal of 13,000 visits in its first year.
The gait and balance center specializes in the treatment of ailments such as cerebral palsy, vestibular disorders, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and ALS.
Clinical experts said the need for such a center is clear. More than 12 million Americans age 65 or older have dizziness problems that often significantly interfere with their lives, said Dr. Tracy Eicher, the center’s neurology director. Dizziness accounts for an estimated 5 million to 8 million physician visits each year, she said, and it’s the top reason for office visits for those age 75 or older.
“It’s more disabling than pain,” Eicher said.
Patients should benefit from the advanced training of the center’s therapists and nearly $500,000 in specialized equipment, Eicher said.
One machine, the SMART EquiTest, involves patients entering a booth and standing on a sensor-equipped plate. The booth detects how a person overcompensates for balance problems, or can be thrown off-balance without the aid of certain cues, such as their vision.
The center also has extensive overhead harness and track systems suspended from the ceiling.
Among the center’s services are pelvic floor therapy for those with incontinence issues, physical therapy provided by physical therapists certified in vestibular therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, post-concussion treatment, neuro-wellness services, post-rehab, wheelchair evaluation and orthotists who specialize in braces and splinting.
Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7457 or bsutherly@DaytonDailyNews.com.
About the Author