Rehabilitation

Balance & Gait Training

Exercises to improve steadiness and walking, build confidence and reduce the risk of falls.

Overview

Balance and walking (gait) can be affected by many neurological conditions, by inner-ear problems, or by weakness or numbness in the legs and feet.

Balance and gait training uses graded exercises and walking practice to improve steadiness, build confidence and lower the risk of falls.

When rehabilitation may help

  • Unsteadiness or dizziness when walking
  • Falls or near-falls
  • Shuffling or uneven walking
  • Fear of falling that limits your activity
  • Using a walking aid and wanting to walk more safely

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

What sessions involve

  1. An assessment of standing balance, walking pattern and fall risk.
  2. Exercises for balance, strength and coordination.
  3. Advice on walking aids and on safety at home.

Who may benefit

  • People with balance problems due to neurological or inner-ear conditions
  • Older adults at risk of falls
  • People recovering from stroke or living with Parkinson's disease

How to prepare

It helps to bring:

  • Comfortable clothing and supportive footwear
  • Any walking aid you currently use
  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse

What happens next

  • Exercises are progressed as your balance improves.
  • A home programme may be suggested to keep practising safely.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

Can balance improve with exercise?

For many people, regular targeted practice improves balance and confidence. Results vary depending on the cause.

How can I reduce the risk of falls at home?

Good lighting, removing loose rugs, using handrails and wearing supportive footwear can help. The therapist can give advice specific to your home.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

In an emergency

If you or someone with you has sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, a sudden severe headache or loss of consciousness, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment or rely on this website.

Call 112

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.