6 Steps to Better Balance

I saw this on the web and thought it may be helpful for many with Balance problems. Always check with your doctor first.

Whether your poor balance is due to age-related declines in strength or sensory-motor functions or a chronic condition such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease, these exercises can help.

1. STAND ON ONE FOOT. 

Hold on to a sturdy chair that won't move, or stand next to a wall and put your hand on it for support, and lift one foot. Then try standing on one foot without holding the chair. As you feel steadier, try closing your eyes. Then repeat with the other foot.

2. WALK HEEL-TO-TOE. 

Position the heel of one foot just in front of the toes of the other foot for each step, as though you're walking on a tightrope.

3. LIFT YOUR ARMS. 

Raise your arms out to your sides at shoulder height, then choose a spot on the wall and focus on it to stay steady as you walk.

4. USE YOUR HEAD. 

Turn your head from side to side while walking in a straight line. Every couple of steps, look at something on the left and keep it in focus, then look at something on the right and keep it in focus.

5. KICK BACK. 

Hold on to a chair or stand next to a wall and put your hand on it for support, then slowly lift and extend one leg straight back without bending your knee or pointing your toe. Hold the position for one second then repeat 10 to 15 times with each leg.

6. LIFT TO THE SIDE. 

Hold on to a chair or stand next to a wall and put your hand on it for support, then slowly lift one leg straight out to the side with your toes facing forward. Hold the position for one second, then repeat 10 to 15 times with each leg.

http://journals.lww.com/neurologynow/Fulltext/2016/12030/Balancing_Act__Unsteadiness_is_a_common_symptom_of.18.aspx