In general keeping as active as possible is a good idea. Any form of activity that you enjoy is usually a good idea providing it is carried out in a safe environment.

General forms of exercise that are often recommended for balance patients include regular gentle exercise such as walking, Tai Chi or yoga. You can do as much or as little as you feel comfortable with but, as with all exercise, little and often is better than lots once in a while.

There are some specific exercise programmes designed for balance problems. These include balance retraining exercises, habituation exercises and adaptation exercises. Research has shown that the exercises work best if a particular programme is designed to suit your individual needs and difficulties. Your specialist or physiotherapist should be able to advise you on which are the most appropriate exercises in your case.

The specific exercises are not suitable for all balance problems. As a general rule, dizziness associated with head movement or exacerbated by movement of your environment respond well to exercise therapy.

The exercises are usually taught in a clinic/hospital environment initially and you will then be given a programme to follow at home. The programme will be adjusted as you improve and progress.

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