Unsteadiness

Unsteadiness is a condition characterized by a lack of balance or stability, often resulting in a difficulty to maintain a steady posture or to walk without stumbling or falling. It is a common symptom in many medical conditions, including neurological disorders, vestibular disorders, and orthopedic conditions.

Causes

Unsteadiness can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Neurological disorders: Conditions such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke can cause unsteadiness due to damage to the parts of the brain that control movement and balance.
• Vestibular disorders: Disorders of the inner ear, such as Meniere's disease and vestibular neuritis, can cause unsteadiness due to problems with the body's balance system.
• Orthopedic conditions: Conditions that affect the bones, joints, and muscles, such as arthritis and osteoporosis, can cause unsteadiness due to pain and weakness.
• Medications: Certain medications, including some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications, can cause unsteadiness as a side effect.
• Age: Older adults are more likely to experience unsteadiness due to age-related changes in the body, such as decreased muscle strength and changes in the sensory system.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of unsteadiness usually involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, as well as tests to evaluate balance and coordination. These may include:

• Neurological examination: This may include tests of balance, coordination, and reflexes.
• Vestibular testing: This may include tests to evaluate the function of the inner ear, such as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver or electronystagmography.
• Imaging tests: These may include MRI or CT scan to look for abnormalities in the brain or inner ear.

Treatment

Treatment for unsteadiness depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

• Physical therapy: This can help improve balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls.
• Medication: This may be used to treat the underlying cause of the unsteadiness, such as medication to control symptoms of Parkinson's disease or Meniere's disease.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to treat the underlying cause of the unsteadiness, such as surgery to repair a damaged inner ear.

See also

• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Balance disorder

Unsteadiness Resources
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