Sensory Ataxia

Sensory ataxia is a condition where damage to the sensory nerves leads to problems with balance, coordination, and movement. Unlike cerebellar ataxia, which originates in the brain, sensory ataxia is caused by damage to the pathways that carry sensory feedback from the body to the brain — particularly those involved in touch, joint position and movement (proprioception).

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we provide specialist inpatient neurorehabilitation for adults living with sensory ataxia, whether due to trauma, disease, or progressive neurological conditions. Our expert team helps patients improve stability, coordination, and independence through targeted, evidence-based therapies.

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What Causes Sensory Ataxia?

Sensory ataxia can result from any condition that damages the posterior (dorsal) columns of the spinal cord, the peripheral nerves, or the brain’s sensory relay systems.

Common causes include:

• Peripheral neuropathy (e.g. diabetic neuropathy, B12 deficiency)
• Spinal cord injury or compression (especially affecting the posterior columns)
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Tabes dorsalis (a late complication of syphilis)
• Friedreich’s ataxia and other inherited ataxias
• Tumours or cysts affecting the spinal cord
• Autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome
• Post-infectious nerve damage (e.g. Guillain-Barré syndrome)
• Toxic nerve damage (e.g. from chemotherapy, alcohol abuse)

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Key Symptoms

People with sensory ataxia may experience:

• Unsteady or wide-based walking
• Poor coordination, especially in low light or with eyes closed
• Difficulty with fine motor tasks (e.g. buttoning clothes)
• Positive Romberg’s sign – unsteadiness worsens when eyes are closed
• Heavy, slapping steps due to lack of feedback from the feet
• Numbness, tingling or sensory loss in the hands or feet
• Frequent falls or fear of falling

Unlike cerebellar ataxia, speech and eye movements are usually not affected.

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Rehabilitation at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

Sensory ataxia can be debilitating, especially when combined with other neurological symptoms such as fatigue or muscle weakness. We offer inpatient rehabilitation programmes tailored to each individual’s needs and goals.

Our multidisciplinary support includes:

• Neurophysiotherapy to strengthen core stability, posture and gait
• Occupational therapy to improve safety and confidence in daily tasks
• Balance retraining using visual and vestibular strategies
• Fatigue management and pacing support
• Psychological support to address anxiety, frustration or adjustment issues
• Education to help patients understand and manage their condition

Explore Our Rehabilitation Services

Multiple Sclerosis Rehab

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When to Consider Inpatient Rehabilitation

You may benefit from inpatient neurorehabilitation at Royal Bucks if:

• Your balance or walking has deteriorated
• You’ve had frequent falls or injuries
• You are struggling to cope at home or return to work
• You are living with a neurological condition causing nerve damage
• Outpatient therapy has been insufficient

We also support patients whose diagnosis is unclear but whose symptoms are impacting their mobility and quality of life.