ð§ Balance, Falls & Mobility
Understand what affects balance and mobility, and how physiotherapy may help you move more safely and confidently.
What is balance, falls & mobility?
Problems with balance or a fall can affect confidence as much as mobility. Physiotherapy can help identify what's behind it and rebuild your ability to move around safely.
Common causes
- Muscle weakness, especially in the legs
- Inner ear or balance system changes
- Reduced sensation in the feet
- Side effects of certain medications
- Fear of falling that leads to reduced activity
Common symptoms
- Feeling unsteady when walking or standing
- A recent fall, or a fear of falling
- Difficulty with stairs or uneven ground
- Reduced confidence moving around your home
- Needing to hold onto furniture or walls for support
When to see a physiotherapist
- Have you had a fall or a near-fall recently?
- Do you feel unsteady on your feet or avoid certain activities because of it?
- Has your confidence with walking or moving around changed?
- Do you rely on holding onto furniture or walls more than before?
How physiotherapy can help
A physiotherapist can assess your balance, strength and walking pattern, and build a plan to help you move around more safely and confidently, reducing your risk of falling.
Treatment approaches
- Balance and stability training
- Strength and gait training
- Home safety and mobility advice
- Functional task practice
- Confidence-building progressions
- Home exercise programme
What to expect at your first visit
Your physiotherapist will typically start by discussing your symptoms and history, then carry out an appropriate assessment. They'll talk through what they find in plain language, answer your questions, and work with you to build an individualised plan â there's no expectation that everything gets fixed in one visit.
Ready to take the next step?
Find a physiotherapist who can assess your condition and help you work towards your recovery.
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