Physiotherapy for Balance and Walking Problems

What is Balance?

Balance and gait problems include changes in how a person stands, walks, turns or responds to movement. They can have many causes, including weakness, pain, neurological conditions and previous falls.

What problems can people face?

People may walk slowly, shuffle, take small steps, have difficulty turning, trip, stumble, hold onto furniture, feel unsteady or avoid walking.

What can happen when it is not addressed?

Walking may become increasingly restricted, contributing to inactivity, weakness, reduced confidence and further loss of independence.

How ACP can help

ACP assesses walking, balance, lower-limb strength, transfers, mobility aids and functional movement. Treatment may include gait retraining, balance exercises, strengthening, walking practice, transfer training and mobility-aid assessment.

When should physiotherapy be considered?

Consider an assessment when walking changes, balance deteriorates, falls occur or a person begins avoiding activities.