Balance loss is when you are unable to remain upright and move in a coordinated and confident fashion. Many people assume balance difficulties are a normal part of aging but balance loss – along with other symptoms, such as tingling and numbness – can be a symptom of many medical conditions, including peripheral neuropathy.
Balance loss occurs when your motor nerves become damaged (which can happen with peripheral neuropathy) and fail to properly transmit signals between, say, your head and feet, making it difficult to stand and move in a reliable and unfaltering manner.
There are many other signs and symptoms of balance loss. In this article, we’ll talk about the common symptoms of balance loss, how loss of balance is diagnosed, and where you can go for world-class treatment of balance loss if you’re located in Jacksonville, Florida.
Symptoms of Balance Loss
Common signs and symptoms of balance loss or balance problems are:
- Falling or feeling as if you’re falling
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness or a floating sensation
- Lightheadedness
- Feeling like you may faint (presyncope)
- Unsteadiness
- Having a sense of motion or spinning (also called vertigo)
- Confusion
How Is Balance Loss Diagnosed?
Balance loss is diagnosed by assessing your symptoms and performing various tests, such as:
Imaging Tests
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans can help pinpoint the underlying cause of balance loss, as well as rule out other causes. These imaging tests can identify compressed, pinched, or damaged nerves that might be causing balance problems.
Electromyography (EMG)
This test helps find out whether there is dysfunction or a problem with signaling between your muscles and nerves that may be causing difficulty balancing. During the test, your doctor inserts very fine needles through the skin and into specific muscles. These needles record electrical activity at rest and during muscle contraction.
Nerve Conduction Studies
Balance loss related to peripheral neuropathy can also be diagnosed by a nerve conduction study. This study can determine if your peripheral nervesare damaged and thus may be the reasonfor your balance loss. The study measures the intensity and speed of electric signaling by certain nerves.
During a nerve conduction study, electrodes in the form of a small flat patch are placed on your skin over specific nerves in your arms or legs. A mild electrical current is delivered to the nerves and the response of your nerves to this current is recorded.
Balance Loss Treatment in Jacksonville, FL
If you are experiencing symptoms of balance loss along with pain, numbness, and tingling and are seeking lasting relief, look no further than the peripheral neuropathy treatments offered by the healthcare providers at NIVA health.
Our highly skilled and experienced healthcare professionals will assess your balance loss symptoms, conduct tests, and provide a diagnosis. They will also offer various treatment options to treat your balance loss due to peripheral neuropathy – including an innovative, FDA-cleared approach that uses therapeutic energy waves help heal damaged nerves.
If you would like to make an appointment with us, call our location nearest you, or fill out our online form to request an appointment now.
