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Balance Disorders
If you frequently feel unsteady on your feet or fall often, it could be a balance disorder (also known as ataxia). At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, our neurologists see a high volume of patients with balance disorders and use the latest evidence-based methods to treat this common disorder.
Balance disorder treatment: Why choose us?
Our program is home to experienced movement disorder specialists who treat balance disorders every day. We offer advanced studies through our neurodiagnostic laboratory. Our expertise means you receive an accurate diagnosis and the right treatments for your needs
Causes of balance disorders
Balance disorders are often due to another medical condition or harmful substances, including:
- Alcohol or recreational drug misuse
- Concussion
- Infections
- Neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
- Prescription drug side effects
- Vitamin deficiencies
Balance disorders sometimes result from gene changes (mutations) passed down in families. Mutations may also occur for no known reason.
Symptoms of balance disorders
Balance disorder symptoms may include:
- Challenges performing tasks involving your hands, like writing or brushing your teeth
- Difficulty eating and swallowing
- Muscle spasms and stiffness that are sometimes painful
- Slow or involuntary eye movement
- Slurred speech
- Tremors
Balance disorder evaluation
Neurologists at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health excel in evaluating balance disorder symptoms. After learning about your medical history and performing a thorough exam, we may recommend additional testing.
Some locations are among a few in the Puget Sound area offering sophisticated studies, such as videonystagmography. This test determines whether subtle, irregular eye movements are contributing to your symptoms. We may also perform nerve conduction studies. Learn more about our neurodiagnostic lab.
Balance disorder treatments
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offers the full range of balance disorder treatments. We develop a personalized care plan that may include:
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Medications can treat certain balance disorder symptoms, including tremors, rigidity and cramping. Botulinum toxin injections relieve muscle stiffness. Some drugs control eye movement. If balance disorders are due to a medication side effect, your neurologist may recommend other drugs.
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A physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor (physiatrist) specializing in neurologic disorders guides neurorehabilitation services. You receive services from experienced providers that may include:
- Balance therapy: Physical therapists help you feel steadier on your feet and improve your muscle strength and flexibility.
- Occupational therapy: Our therapists teach you new methods for performing daily activities.
- Speech therapy: Our therapists help you overcome voice, speaking and swallowing challenges.
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Recommendations vary based on the underlying cause. You may need antibiotics for infections or diet changes to address nutrient deficiencies. Our specialists may also refer you to other Virginia Mason Franciscan Health doctors for additional testing and treatments.
Find a specialist
Our specialists care for patients across the Puget Sound area and beyond. Find a balance disorder specialist near you.