How does a neurological condition affect balance?
Many people with a neurological condition experience difficulties with their balance. There are many reasons why balance is affected but it is usually due to a combination of some of the following:
- Weakness in limbs and trunk, affecting motor control
- Lack of co-ordination of movement (ataxia)
- Altered sensation
- Alteration in perception of posture, in relation to the upright
- Dizzyness and vertigo
- Altered vision
- Impulsiveness and reduced awareness of limitations (due to cognitive changes)
How can physiotherapy help with balance?
Physiotherapy can improve balance in some of the following ways:
- Strengthening weak muscles
- Progressive balance training
- Postural training
- Stretching to improve flexibility
- Repetitive task-specific training to strengthen neurological pathways and re-learn new movements
- Sensory stimulation
- Strengthening the vestibular systems (in the inner ear)
- Gait re-education
- Managing foot drop
- Teaching strategies for safe movement
- Falls management
Contact us to discuss how we can help you with your balance
South London Neuro Physio 