

This spinal cord disease is called myelopathy, and it interferes with the signals between the brain and feet. When this occurs, the nerve signals don't travel efficiently from the brain to your feet and cause you to lose your balance.

A brain tumor also can interfere with the connection between your brain and the nerves in your legs and feet, causing you to feel unsteady or weak.Īrthritis in your neck, upper and mid spine, also known as your cervical or thoracic spine, can compress your spinal cord. A stroke or "mini stroke," also known as a transient ischemic attack, or TIA, can lead to an abrupt loss of balance, weakness on one side or speech problems. If a part of this system is damaged, the signals can't be transmitted effectively, which leads to balance issues and falling.Ī traumatic injury, such as a concussion or stroke, could cause you to feel off balance. Your nervous system sends information from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. Many medical conditions can cause issues with balance, and several nerve conditions could be linked to balance concerns.

These conditions require prompt medical attention and evaluation. While rare, other primary brain problems leading to balance changes include tumors. If your symptoms are severe and dramatic ― for example, the inability to keep your balance suddenly with no previous concerns ― you could have a serious medical condition, such as a stroke or concussion. In some cases, it could be something simple, such as dehydration, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, which can be treated in a few therapy sessions. He or she can evaluate you for signs of more concerning symptoms. If you notice gradual changes, such as needing to hold the stair rail or grab the counter occasionally, you should contact your primary care provider. A rapid deterioration versus a gradual decline in balance is important information to determine the urgency needed to be evaluated by a health care provider. While this is true to an extent, any noticeable change in your balance is important to bring to the attention of your health care team. Many people dismiss balance issues as a normal part of aging. Determine when your balance issues started Occasionally, balance concerns are caused by issues with your central nervous system, including your brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. When any of these systems aren't functioning well, you can experience balance problems. Many body systems, including your brain, nerves, muscles, bones, joints, eyes, inner ear and blood vessels, must work together to maintain normal balance. At times, you may feel unsure or unsteady on your feet, as if your brain and legs are disconnected. Problems that affect balance can make you feel dizzy or as if the room is spinning and you're going to fall.
