Ataxia

What is Ataxia?

Ataxia is a neurological condition that affects coordination, balance and movement. It occurs when the cerebellum—the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement—or its connections become damaged. Ataxia may develop suddenly following a stroke, brain injury or infection, or gradually due to inherited or progressive neurological conditions.

People with ataxia often experience an unsteady walking pattern, poor balance, reduced coordination, dizziness, tremor during movement and difficulty performing precise tasks such as writing, fastening buttons or picking up small objects. Speech and eye movement can also be affected in some individuals.

Although ataxia cannot always be cured, specialist neurological physiotherapy can help improve movement, maximise independence and reduce the risk of falls, allowing people to remain active for as long as possible.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapy is one of the key treatments for managing ataxia. Rehabilitation focuses on improving balance, coordination, movement control and confidence while helping you develop strategies to manage everyday activities safely.

At Greenacre Physio, every rehabilitation programme is individually tailored and may include:

Balance and postural control training
Walking and gait rehabilitation
Coordination and motor control exercises
Functional task-specific rehabilitation
Strength and endurance exercises
Falls prevention strategies
Core stability and postural exercises
Vestibular rehabilitation where dizziness is present
Advice regarding mobility aids where appropriate
Home exercise programmes to support long-term progress

Our aim is to improve your movement efficiency, reduce falls and help you remain as independent as possible.

Why Choose Greenacre Physio?

At Greenacre Physio, our clinicians have extensive experience treating people with ataxia through specialist NHS neurological services and private practice. We regularly work with individuals whose balance, coordination and mobility have been affected by neurological conditions, providing evidence-based rehabilitation tailored to each person's unique presentation.

Whether your ataxia is the result of a stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, a genetic condition or another neurological disorder, we will work closely with you to develop a rehabilitation programme that reflects your goals, abilities and lifestyle.

Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations, ensuring specialist neurological physiotherapy is accessible wherever you are.

What to Expect

Your first appointment will include a comprehensive assessment of your walking, balance, coordination, posture, strength, functional mobility and personal goals. We will discuss how your symptoms affect your daily life and identify the areas where rehabilitation can make the greatest difference.

Following your assessment, you will receive a personalised rehabilitation programme designed to improve your confidence, mobility and independence. Your treatment plan will be regularly reviewed and progressed to help you achieve your goals safely and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy improve ataxia?

While physiotherapy cannot always reverse the underlying neurological condition, it can significantly improve balance, walking, coordination, confidence and functional independence. Many people also find that regular rehabilitation helps reduce their risk of falls.

Will exercise make my symptoms worse?

Exercise should be tailored to your individual abilities. A specialist neurological physiotherapist will prescribe exercises that challenge your balance and coordination safely while avoiding unnecessary fatigue or frustration.

Can physiotherapy help if my ataxia is progressive?

Yes. Physiotherapy remains beneficial for progressive forms of ataxia by helping maintain mobility, optimise movement strategies, prevent secondary complications and maximise independence for as long as possible.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio. We also accept referrals from neurologists, GPs, rehabilitation consultants and other healthcare professionals.

Book an Appointment

If you are living with ataxia and would like specialist neurological physiotherapy, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics, arrange a home visit, or schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced neurological physiotherapists.