We do not think about our balance until we cannot walk safely without leaning or holding on to something to prevent us from tipping over. Many different body parts and systems are a part of one’s balance and safety walking or movement.
The following are some of the causes of balance issues for people.
1. Inner ear dysfunction – While this is not the most frequent cause of balance issues, it can be one of the more debilitating. Often the balance problems in the ear also have a dizziness element to them. This means that when the head is turned or moved, there is a sense of either the person moving or the room moving around them. Inner ear dysfunction is a type of condition that has many causes and is best treated by a neurologist or ear nose and throat doctor.
2. Arthritis - When the joints of the legs are hurting with movement like walking, standing or transferring, we alter how we move to minimize the pain. This alteration in our movement leads to deterioration of some muscles due to lack of use. This lack of use further places the individual at risk due to weakness. While it does not necessarily mean a joint replacement, gentle exercise can help keep the pain and disability at bay. Medications may be helpful, but use pain medications with care because they can cause falls because they can alter your mental status and cause dizziness.
3. Diabetes – Diabetes is a disease of the pancreas and blood sugar, but just as importantly it is a disease of the nerves and blood vessels. Diabetes causes a change in the body’s breakdown of food and can increase cholesterol and other blood fats. These fats clog blood vessels. The small blood vessels that feed the feet and toes with blood are often affected. They are so tiny they are one of the first to be clogged. Elevated blood sugar also impacts nerve function and can lead to pain and loss of sensation in the feet. If you cannot feel your feet, you are not going to have good balance and be at risk for falls.
Many factors go into balance and our ability to walk and move safely. The discussion above only describes three common issues. If you feel dizzy, are grabbing for things as your walk, wobble when your stand erect or need to take two or three tries at standing up from a sitting position, you are a risk. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about your concerns and get referrals to experts that can help you remain safe.