Balance is a state of equilibrium that allows a person to remain upright and steady. It is achieved when the centre of mass is located over a person’s base of support.

Balance is important so that we can:

- See clearly while moving
- Orientate ourselves with respect to gravity i.e. know which way is up and which way is down
- Gauge the speed and direction of movement.
- Adjust our posture and remain stable during different activities in various conditions

A person’s ability to achieve balance is comprised of a complex set of sensorimotor control systems. The sensors that help us to achieve balance are our:

- Eyes
- Proprioceptors (nerve endings in the muscles, ligaments and skin that feel the position of our body)
- Vestibular system (an organ in the inner ear that detects motion, equilibrium and spatial orientation)

Information from these three sensors is transmitted to the central nervous system where it is processed. Nerves then transmit information to our muscles that move our body to maintain balance and to our eyes to maintain steady vision.

Injury, disease and the ageing process can disrupt or damage different and multiple components of our balance system.


  • 15 Years Experience

    Melinda has over 15 years' experience as a Physiotherapist, she is a titled Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist and a specialist in Vestibular Rehabilitation.

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  • Feeling Dizzy?

    If you have symptoms of Dizzyness, Vertigo or Balance issues. Contact us today for an appointment.

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  • Opening Hours

    • Saturdays at Karrinyup Physiotherapy Centre
    • Please contact us for evening appointments.