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Balance Problems
Up to ¾ of people who suffer strokes complain of balance problems. Balance is a vital part of coordination, sitting and walking upright. This complex process relies on responsive muscles and messages being exchanged with the brain successfully. We balance without having to think about it.
What Causes The Problem?
- the stroke itself may damage the part of the brain that controls balance
- if your vision and hearing have been affected by your stroke then your sense of balance probably will be too
- 'Inattention'—the inability to process information in relation to the affected side of your body—can contribute to balance problems
Will I Get My Balance Back?
As the brain slowly repairs itself co-ordination and balance often returns without any therapy or treatment.
Most people regain their balance within a couple of months of the stroke.
However, residual problems may remain and for some people the balance problem will never go. This can impact on your ability to walk and increase your risk of falling.
How Can I Improve My Balance?
Be patient when trying to regain your balance it is an ability you have to relearn. This usually involves the help of physiotherapists
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the first step is to learn to balance upright while sitting in a chair. Many people find they fall towards their paralysed side and they’re often not aware of doing so. This is because they lose sense of where the midline of their body is.
If you lean heavily to one side you are more likely to topple. Focus on an object straight ahead of you to help achieve an upright position. - once you can sit upright learn to transfer between bed and a chair. You will be less afraid of falling if you practice when there is somebody around.
- you are ready to start learning to walk once you can transfer safely.
Practice In Different Places
Many people who spend time in hospital following their strokes re-learn to walk in a gymnasium but it is important to practise in different places. Being able to keep your balance in the gym does not mean you will be able to do so in a busy street or around the home where there are distractions.
Practice Various Activities
Once you’re steady on your feet, you should try keeping your balance while doing various activities, such as picking up objects. Don’t be disheartened if you fall a few times—if you practice when somebody else is around, he or she can help you. It is the fear of falling that often stops people getting mobile again.
Practice For Short Periods
When people start to walk again they should practice for short periods only—about 20 minutes at a time—as research shows being overtired makes you more likely to fall. Practice is crucial to success.
Fear Of Falling
Relatives may be afraid the person who has had a stroke will fall. This fear is often transferred to the patient and a vicious circle develops—because they are nervous they’re more likely to fall, which of course makes them more nervous. To overcome this fear, set up an alarm system to summon help if a fall does occur.
Should I Use A Walking Stick?
Opinion on the use of walking sticks is fiercely divided among specialists. Some believe that if you use a stick you will become too dependent on it and it could stop you developing a normal gait. Others think it provides a good walking aid which will help give you confidence. It is best to try walking indoors without a stick—perhaps save it for when you walk outside to warn people that you need a bit of space.
Where Should I Go For Help?
In hospital a lot of help is available but at home many people feel a bit abandoned. Try to be patient, it can take time to get your confidence and skills back. However don’t struggle alone if your problems continue
- talk to your GP who may be able to arrange for a community physiotherapist to visit your home or see you as an outpatient
- or you could pay to see a private physiotherapist
Contact PhysioFirst to find a private chartered physiotherapist.
Ten Tips For Balance
- make sure your home is well lit to reduce the risk of falling
- remove rugs and obstacles that could make you trip or throw you off balance
- wear sensible, well-fitting shoes
- practise walking in short bursts—never when you are tired
- focus on an object in the distance to help steady yourself
- use a stick when walking outside to warn people to give you extra space
- install an alarm system to summon help if you fall
- practise walking in different contexts—outdoors and inside your home
- avoid medications that make you sleepy
- consult your GP if you have lasting problems
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