Reduced balance can affect your confidence in daily life and increase the risk of falls. Here we explain common causes, symptoms and how you can improve your balance and reduce the risk of falling.
What is reduced balance?
Reduced balance means a decreased ability to control the body’s position and stability, both while standing still and during movement. Balance is a collaboration between vision, the balance organs in the inner ear and the body’s proprioception (joint and muscle awareness). When any part of this system does not function optimally, or when the coordination between the systems is impaired, it can lead to unsteadiness, dizziness or an increased risk of falls.
Common causes & risk factors
Reduced balance can result from several different factors. Common causes include age-related changes, reduced muscle strength, injuries to joints or muscles, and problems affecting the balance organs. Neurological conditions, long-term inactivity and certain medications can also negatively affect balance. People who have previously injured the foot, knee or hip may develop reduced proprioception, which increases the risk of instability.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms include a feeling of unsteadiness, especially while walking or standing on one leg. Some people experience dizziness or difficulty orienting themselves in space. You may also feel insecure during quick movements, on uneven surfaces or in darkness. In some cases, the risk of stumbling or falling increases.
When should you seek medical care?
You should seek medical care if your balance is clearly impaired, if you experience recurring dizziness or if you have fallen or feel a pronounced fear of falling. Sudden onset of balance problems or balance issues combined with other symptoms, such as weakness or vision changes, should always be assessed by healthcare professionals.
Recommended supports & aids
Balance can be improved through targeted exercises that challenge stability and coordination. Strength training for the legs and core is often an important part. Stable shoes, insoles or orthoses can contribute to greater confidence and better control in daily life. Walking aids may also be used when needed to reduce the risk of falls. It is also important to adapt the home environment and reduce risk factors such as slippery floors, rugs or poor lighting.
An effective way to improve balance is to challenge the body’s different sensory systems. For example, you can train your balance by standing on one leg and gradually making the exercise more difficult – close your eyes to reduce visual input, stand on a soft or unstable surface to challenge proprioception, or turn your head to activate the balance organs. Start simply and gradually increase the difficulty. Regular training, even in short sessions, can provide good long-term results.
See our products for reduced balance
Related injuries
For more information about foot and knee problems, you can find additional articles in our injury guides for these body parts. On the main page of the Injury Guide, you get an overview of common injuries affecting different body parts.
