What You're Experiencing

Feeling unsteady on your feet, swaying when standing, or difficulty walking in a straight line.

When to seek help: This symptom should be assessed by a physiotherapist within the next 1-2 weeks to prevent it from worsening.

Likely Causes

This symptom is commonly caused by one or more of the following conditions. A physiotherapist can identify the exact cause through a thorough assessment.

1 Vestibular disorders (inner ear)
2 BPPV (vertigo)
3 Ankle instability
4 Age-related deconditioning

What a Physiotherapist Will Do

1. Assessment

Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough examination including movement tests, palpation, and posture analysis to identify the root cause of your loss of balance.

2. Diagnosis

Based on the assessment, they'll explain which of the likely causes applies to you and discuss the best treatment approach.

3. Treatment

Treatment typically combines hands-on therapy for immediate relief with targeted exercises to address the underlying cause. Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 sessions.

4. Home Programme

You'll receive specific exercises and advice to continue your recovery at home, helping you get better faster between sessions.

Related Conditions & Treatments

Learn more about the conditions and treatments related to this symptom:

condition Vertigo & BPPV → condition Ankle Sprain → condition Stroke Rehabilitation →

Helpful Articles

Balance Training Fall Prevention →Vertigo And Physiotherapy →Walking Aid Guide Seniors →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy help with balance problems?

Yes. Vestibular rehabilitation and balance training are among physiotherapy's most effective treatments. For BPPV, a single treatment session resolves symptoms in 80-90% of cases. For general balance issues, progressive exercises significantly reduce fall risk.

Is loss of balance serious?

It depends on the cause. Sudden balance problems should be evaluated immediately. Gradual balance decline, especially in older adults, responds well to physiotherapy balance training and can significantly reduce fall risk.

Can balance be improved with exercise?

Absolutely. Balance can be significantly improved at any age through specific exercises. Physiotherapy balance programmes have been shown to reduce fall risk by up to 40% in older adults.