5 Signs Your Balance Needs Work and How Physio Can Help
Balance is one of those things you don’t think about much until it starts to go. Whether it’s a near miss in the shower, feeling a bit unsteady walking on grass, or suddenly needing to hold onto the furniture at home, your body could be telling you that your balance needs some attention.
Here’s the thing: loss of balance isn’t just about age. It can be related to injuries, neurological conditions, inner ear issues, or even reduced strength from a sedentary lifestyle. But whatever the cause, the good news is this balance can be retrained.
So how do you know it’s time to work on it?
1. You’ve Had a Fall (or Almost Had One)
Falls are the clearest sign that your balance is off but even near-misses count. Tripping on flat ground, stumbling when turning, or catching yourself on walls or furniture are all signs your brain and body aren’t working together as smoothly as they could be.
2. You Avoid Certain Surfaces or Situations
Do you dread uneven footpaths, grassy parks, or wet tiles? Do you avoid walking in the dark or crowds because you feel unsure? These kinds of hesitations are your body’s way of saying: “Something’s not right.”
Physios often hear, “I just don’t feel confident on my feet anymore.” That’s a red flag.
3. You Use Furniture for Support
If you’re starting to walk with one hand on the kitchen bench or always looking for a wall to lean on, this habit could be masking a deeper issue with balance or strength. It’s common but not something to ignore.
4. You Struggle with Simple Balance Tests
Here’s a quick test: stand near your kitchen bench and see if you can balance on one leg for at least 5 seconds without wobbling or reaching for support. Can’t do it? That’s a clue.
Other signs include trouble standing with feet together or closing your eyes while standing.
5. You’ve Slowed Down or Stopped Moving
Reduced activity often starts subtly: walking less, giving up gardening, skipping the morning walk. Sometimes it’s due to fear of falling. Unfortunately, the less we move, the worse our balance tends to get. It’s a vicious cycle but one that physio can help break.
Why Balance Declines and How Physio Helps
Balance is a complex system involving your eyes, ears (vestibular system), joints, muscles, and brain. If one area becomes weaker or less responsive, your ability to stay steady suffers.
Physiotherapists assess which part of your balance system needs help and create a plan to rebuild it. That might include:
– Strengthening weak leg and core muscles
– Challenging your balance with controlled exercises
– Gait and posture training
– Dual-task training (like walking while talking)
– Advice on footwear, home safety, and falls prevention
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Everyone is different, but with consistent work (even just 10–15 minutes per day), most people notice improvement in 4–6 weeks. Small wins like turning more confidently, standing longer, or walking further can make a huge difference to your daily life.
Don’t Wait Until You Fall
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, don’t brush them off as “just getting older.” Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in adults over 65 but many are preventable.
Ready to feel steadier and more confident?
Book an assessment with one of our physiotherapists today. We’ll help you understand your balance, strengthen what’s needed, and create a tailored plan to keep you moving safely wherever life takes you.
By Tari Rimon
Physiotherapist
