Balance ProblemsSymptoms
Understand common causes, red flags and how physiotherapy improves stability, confidence and daily function.
What are balance problems?
Balance problems include dizziness, unsteadiness or feeling off-balance. Causes may be vestibular (inner ear), neurological, visual or musculoskeletal, and many people improve with targeted rehabilitation.
Seek urgent care for sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, facial droop, speech or vision changes, chest pain, or if symptoms occur after head trauma.
Who it affects and typical treatment
Who it affects
- Older adults or anyone with falls or near-falls
- People with vestibular disorders or after illness
- Neurological or musculoskeletal conditions affecting gait
Typical treatment plan
- Vestibular rehabilitation and balance/proprioception training
- Strength and mobility work for hips, knees and ankles
- Gait training and fall-prevention strategies
Common causes
Vestibular dysfunction
BPPV, vestibular neuritis and other inner ear causes.
Proprioception changes
Neuropathy or joint issues reducing joint sense.
Weakness/stiffness
Hip, knee or ankle deficits affecting stability.
Vision/medications
Visual dependence or side effects increasing dizziness.
Neurological conditions
Stroke, Parkinson’s, MS or cerebellar disorders.
Common symptoms
- Unsteady gait, veering or difficulty on uneven ground
- Dizziness or spinning sensations (with some vestibular causes)
- Fear of falling, reduced confidence
- History of falls or near‑falls
How a physiotherapist can help
- Vestibular rehabilitation and gaze stabilization
- Balance, proprioception and strength training
- Gait practice, dual‑task drills and fall‑prevention strategies
Effective treatments
Vestibular rehabilitation
- Habituation, gaze stabilization, positional techniques
- Graded exposure to movement or visual stimuli
Therapeutic exercise
- Lower‑limb strength, step training and gait drills
- Proprioception, perturbations and confidence building
At‑home management
Safety & environment
- Good lighting, reduce trip hazards, use handrails
- Proper footwear with good grip
- Consider shower chair or non‑slip mats
Practice plan
- Daily balance drills near support (countertop)
- Short walks, progress distance if steady
- Pause and regroup if dizziness increases
Recovery basics
- Hydration and regular meals
- Adequate sleep and stress management
- Track progress and celebrate small wins
If symptoms spike, reduce difficulty and retry later.
What to expect in physiotherapy
1) Assessment
- Vestibular screen, gait/balance tests, strength and mobility
- Identify triggers and confidence barriers
2) Plan
- Vestibular drills, balance/proprioception and strength
- Graded walking and fall‑prevention education
3) Progress
- Advance complexity (dual‑task, surfaces, speed)
- Return to daily roles and hobbies with confidence
Most notice improvements within 4–12 weeks with consistent practice.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.