01What is balance problems and falls risk?
Balance depends on strength, joint movement, vision, the inner ear, sensation in the feet and the brain’s ability to coordinate all of these. With age, inactivity, illness and some medications, one or more of these systems can decline.
International guidelines recommend exercise programmes that include balance and functional training – and ideally strength training – to reduce falls in older adults.
02Common symptoms
- Feeling unsteady when walking, turning or standing up
- One or more falls in the past year
- Holding onto furniture or walls while walking
- Fear of falling that limits activities
- Slower walking or shuffling
03Possible causes and risk factors
- Leg muscle weakness
- Reduced balance with age
- Vision problems
- Medications causing dizziness or drowsiness
- Home hazards such as loose rugs, poor lighting and slippery floors
- Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease or stroke
04How a physiotherapy assessment helps
Your assessment with Dr. Pankaj B. LokhandeBPTh, MPTh (Ortho & Sports), PhD Scholar (MUHS)
We use standard balance and mobility tests – for example, timed up and go, sit-to-stand and standing balance tests – alongside a falls history and review of daily activities.
We may recommend that you speak with your doctor about medication review, vision checks or blood pressure on standing.
05Rehabilitation approaches we may use
Progressive balance training
Challenging but safe exercises, progressed regularly.
Leg strength training
Sit-to-stands, step-ups and similar exercises.
Walking practice
Improving walking speed, stride and turning.
Getting up from the floor
Learning how to get up safely after a fall.
Home safety advice
Lighting, rugs, grab rails and footwear.
Home programme
Simple daily exercises with family support.
Your plan is chosen after assessment. Not every approach listed here is suitable for every person.
06Who may benefit
- Older adults who have fallen or feel unsteady
- People with a fear of falling
- Adults with conditions affecting balance (after medical review)
07Safety precautions
- Balance exercises should be done near a stable support initially.
- Wear well-fitting footwear with good grip.
- Stop and rest if you feel dizzy or unwell.
08When to see a doctor first
- A fall with head injury, especially if taking blood thinners
- Sudden loss of balance with speech, vision or facial changes – call emergency services
- Blackouts or repeated unexplained falls
09Frequently asked questions
Can exercise really reduce falls?
Yes. Exercise programmes with balance and strength components are among the best-supported ways of reducing falls in older people.
How often should balance exercises be done?
Regular practice – several times a week – tends to work best. We will set a manageable routine.
Should my family be involved?
Yes. Family members can help with home exercises and safety changes.
What should I do if I fall?
We teach a safe technique for getting up and what to do if you cannot. Keeping a phone within reach is important.
FURTHER READING
This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an individual assessment. Recovery varies from person to person. See our medical disclaimer.
