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You stumbled again. Why does it feel like your arms and legs aren’t working together?
If you have ataxia, it might be hard (or impossible) to coordinate the way you move. You might feel clumsy or unsteady on your feet. How did this happen? And what can you do to get your balance back?
Ataxia can be a complicated condition caused by lots of different things. But when you’re worried about losing your balance with each step or having difficulty keeping your hands steady when writing or eating, you shouldn’t have to sort it all out on your own. You need a healthcare team by your side to help you understand what’s causing this and how you can feel steady and coordinated again. Cleveland Clinic’s neurology specialists are experts in treating ataxia — and all its causes.
At Cleveland Clinic, we have more than 300 experts who can diagnose and treat any issues that affect the connection between your brain, nerves and the rest of your body. Meet our team.
We’ll develop a care plan that focuses on all your symptoms, no matter what’s causing the ataxia. No two cases of ataxia are the same, and we’ll find the right care that matches your needs.
If a clinical trial could help you feel better, we’ll connect you with the right one. We help thousands of people each year find new, effective treatments for ataxia.
If getting to your provider’s office is tough, you might be able to have a virtual visit for some appointments. You’ll get the same great care but from the comfort and convenience of home.
Cleveland Clinic is a trusted healthcare leader. We’re recognized in the U.S. and throughout the world for our expertise and care.
Diagnosing ataxia isn’t always a straightforward process. That’s why your providers need to know what you’ve felt and experienced. We’ll ask you about any balance or coordination problems you’re having, and when you first noticed them.
It’s important to tell your providers how you’re feeling, even if it’s not related to your coordination and balance. Lots of the conditions that cause ataxia, including inherited causes, can have other effects on your physical or mental health.
There are three main types of ataxia. The kind you have depends on how or where it affects you:
It’s ok to have a lot of questions at your first visit. We love questions because they help your care team understand what you’re experiencing. Many issues and conditions can cause ataxia, so your providers will start by going over your health history. You’ll also talk about:
Then, we’ll give you a physical exam so we can gauge your overall health. You’ll also probably need a neurological exam to check your brain health.
You might need some other tests, too, like:
When you choose Cleveland Clinic, we’ll put together a team of experts and specialists. The type of providers you work with will depend on your symptoms and unique needs. Your team may include:
Finding out that you have a movement disorder isn’t easy. You finally have answers, but you also face a lifetime of managing your condition ahead of you. We know it can be hard to wrap your head around this kind of news. That’s why our movement disorder team focuses on taking care of you in every way you need. We guide and support you as you move forward with treatment — so you can enjoy the best possible life and live it to the fullest.
Our healthcare providers see patients at convenient locations in Ohio, Florida, Nevada and London.
Which treatments you’ll need depends on what’s causing the ataxia. Your care team will suggest options to relieve your symptoms, manage the condition that’s causing them and get you back to your usual routine as soon as possible.
Some people need vitamin supplements, others need medications or to tweak their eating or exercise plans. If an injury or health condition caused the ataxia, treating that should relieve the ataxia, too.
You might need follow-up appointments to track your progress. Your care team will be there to answer questions and check on any changes in your symptoms. Which type of ataxia you experience can affect how often you need more tests or neurological exams. Your providers will tell you what to expect and how often you should see them in the future.
You shouldn’t feel worried about moving through the world around you. No matter what’s causing the ataxia, Cleveland Clinic’s neurological experts are here to make sure you feel safe and stable — now and with every step going forward.
Getting an appointment with Cleveland Clinic’s ataxia experts is easy. We’ll help you get the care you need.
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