From the Guidelines
Balance and equilibrium are distinct concepts, with balance referring to the ability to maintain the body's center of mass within the base of support, and equilibrium representing a state of perfect balance where opposing forces are exactly equal. In the context of vestibular therapy, understanding the difference between balance and equilibrium is crucial for developing effective treatment plans for patients with balance disorders, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) 1 or Ménière's disease 1.
Key Differences
- Balance involves coordinating multiple sensory inputs (visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive) with motor outputs to maintain postural stability, and can be momentary or constantly adjusting.
- Equilibrium, on the other hand, represents a more sustained state of stability where all forces are counteracted, and is often referred to as a steady state in physiological terms.
Clinical Implications
- Vestibular rehabilitation programs, which may include habituation exercises, adaptation exercises, and postural control exercises, can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls in patients with balance disorders 1.
- Clinicians should offer vestibular rehabilitation/physical therapy for patients with chronic imbalance, as it has been shown to have a preponderance of benefit over harm 1.
Examples
- A person standing on one foot demonstrates balance, but their body is making continuous small adjustments rather than being in perfect equilibrium.
- Vestibular rehabilitation exercises, such as those described by Cawthorne and Cooksey, can help improve balance and reduce vestibular symptoms in patients with BPPV 1.
From the Research
Definition of Balance and Equilibrium
- Balance refers to the ability to maintain the center of gravity over the base of support, which is essential for preventing falls and maintaining posture 2.
- Equilibrium, on the other hand, is a state of balance where the body is in a stable position, with no net force acting on it.
Key Differences
- Balance is a dynamic process that involves the integration of sensory information from the vestibular, visual, and somatosensory systems to maintain posture and prevent falls 2.
- Equilibrium is a static state that can be achieved through the use of vestibular rehabilitation techniques, such as gaze stability training and habituation training 3, 4, 5, 6.
Relationship Between Balance and Equilibrium
- Balance is necessary for achieving equilibrium, as it allows the body to maintain its center of gravity over its base of support 2.
- Equilibrium is an important aspect of balance, as it provides a stable foundation for movement and posture 3, 4, 5, 6.
Clinical Significance
- Impaired balance and equilibrium can lead to falls, dizziness, and vertigo, which can have significant consequences for individuals with vestibular disorders 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is an effective treatment for improving balance and equilibrium in individuals with vestibular disorders 3, 4, 5, 6.