Balance and stability depend on the coordinated function of the feet, ankles, muscles, and nervous system. The feet play an important role in maintaining stability by providing sensory feedback and supporting the body during standing and walking.
When foot mechanics or lower limb function are altered, balance and stability may sometimes be affected.
Common Symptoms
People experiencing balance or stability problems may notice:
Difficulty maintaining balance when standing or walking
A feeling of instability in the feet or ankles
Frequent ankle rolling or loss of balance
Reduced confidence when walking on uneven surfaces
Unsteadiness during movement
Possible Causes
Balance and stability problems may develop for several reasons including:
Reduced strength or coordination in the lower limb
Previous ankle injuries affecting stability
Altered foot posture
Changes in sensation within the feet
Reduced joint mobility affecting movement control
In some cases, foot mechanics may influence overall stability during walking.
Assessment and Diagnosis
At Absolute Footcare, balance and stability issues may be assessed through a gait and biomechanical assessment.
This allows us to evaluate how the feet and lower limbs function during walking and identify mechanical factors that may influence stability.
We use a Footscan pressure plate system to analyse how pressure is distributed across the foot during walking and how this affects movement patterns.
Treatments
Treatment depends on the underlying cause identified during your assessment.
Possible treatments may include:
Custom Orthotics
Rehabilitation exercises
Biomechanical and Gait analysis
Footwear Advice
Book a Gait and Biomechanical Assessment
If you are experiencing balance or stability problems, the best first step is to arrange a gait and biomechanical assessment.