Ataxia

Ataxia is a neurological disorder that causes movement incoordination, making it difficult for the body to control balance, walking, and fine motor skills.

About this Condition

Understanding Ataxia

What is Ataxia?

Ataxia is a neurological disorder that causes movement incoordination, making it difficult for the body to control balance, walking, and fine motor skills. This condition most often results from problems in the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and maintaining posture.

 

A thorough clinical assessment is essential for identifying the type and cause of ataxia. The Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center at UC Health brings together experts in neurology, genetics, and rehabilitation to provide a complete evaluation for each patient.

Explore Care at UC Health

From Diagnosis to Ongoing Support

UC Health uses advanced neuroimaging, such as MRI scans, to detect changes in the cerebellum and related brain structures. Motion analysis laboratories help specialists measure movement patterns and pinpoint specific coordination challenges.

Genetic testing and specialized diagnostic protocols are available to identify hereditary forms of ataxia and rule out other causes. This comprehensive approach ensures that each patient receives an accurate diagnosis and a clear plan for next steps.

Patients at UC Health benefit from an integrated team that includes neurologists, genetic counselors, physical therapists, and speech therapists. This collaborative model supports every aspect of care, from diagnosis to ongoing management.

By combining advanced technology with a multidisciplinary team, UC Health stands out as a leader in ataxia care and research, offering hope and clarity to patients and families.

Understanding Ataxia

Symptoms of Ataxia

Ataxia often causes problems with movement and coordination, making daily activities more challenging. People may notice unsteady walking, frequent stumbling, or difficulty with tasks that require precise hand movements. Speech can become slurred, and swallowing may be harder than usual.

Muscle weakness and abnormal eye movements are also common. Some individuals experience sudden changes in posture or trouble controlling the direction and distance of their movements, a symptom called dysmetria.

Early Signs of Ataxia: What to Watch For

  • Difficulty with balance and walking

  • Slurred speech or trouble swallowing

  • Uncoordinated hand or eye movements

  • Sudden changes in gait or posture

Other Common Symptoms

  • Tremors or shaking

  • Trouble with fine motor skills, like buttoning a shirt

  • Dizziness or feeling off-balance

  • Fatigue from extra effort needed to move

FAQ: How to Monitor Early Signs of Ataxia at Home

  • Keep a symptom diary noting changes in balance, speech, or coordination

  • Record any new or worsening symptoms to share with your care team

UC Health uses patient journey mapping to track symptoms from the first signs through diagnosis. This helps ensure early support, access to balance retraining exercises, and connection with specialists in movement disorders.

Causes & Risk Factors

Ataxia often results from problems in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls movement coordination. Some types are hereditary, meaning they are passed down through families due to changes in genes. Others are acquired, developing after events like head injury, vitamin E deficiency, alcohol abuse, or a brain hemorrhage. In some cases, the cause remains unknown and is called idiopathic ataxia.

Types of Ataxia

  • Hereditary: Includes Friedreich ataxia and spinocerebellar ataxia, which are linked to changes in specific genes. Genetic testing for spinocerebellar ataxia can help identify these forms.

  • Acquired: Can develop from vitamin deficiencies, especially vitamin E, head injuries, alcohol use, or certain medical conditions.

  • Idiopathic: No clear cause is found, but symptoms still affect coordination and balance.

     

Risk Factors and Advanced Care at UC Health

Risk factors for ataxia include having a family history of the condition, certain genetic changes, low vitamin E levels, and exposure to toxins or alcohol. The Spinocerebellar Tract, a nerve pathway, can be affected in both hereditary and acquired forms. UC Health’s Neurogenetics team uses advanced genetic testing to pinpoint the exact type of ataxia and guide care.

UC Health stands out with its Friedreich Ataxia Registry, which supports research and connects patients to new therapies. Personalized protocols address vitamin deficiencies, and specialists work together to create a plan that fits each patient’s needs. This integrated approach helps patients get answers and the most effective treatments.

Diagnosis of Ataxia

Diagnosing ataxia requires a careful, step-by-step approach to uncover the underlying cause of movement incoordination. At UC Health’s Movement Disorders Center, patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team that includes neurologists, neurogenetics specialists, and rehabilitation experts working together to provide answers.

What to Expect During Diagnosis

  • Comprehensive neurological exam to assess balance, coordination, and reflexes

  • Advanced neuroimaging, such as MRI, to visualize the cerebellum and related brain structures

  • Genetic testing to identify hereditary forms like spinocerebellar ataxia

  • Blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies and other treatable causes

UC Health’s motion analysis laboratories use specialized equipment to measure walking patterns and movement precision. In some cases, intraoperative neuro-monitoring is used during procedures to protect nerve function. Vestibular-ocular integration therapies may also be recommended to evaluate how the eyes and inner ear contribute to balance.

How to Prepare for Ataxia Diagnostic Tests at Home

  • Bring a detailed list of symptoms, including when they started and how they have changed

  • Write down any family history of neurological conditions

  • Wear comfortable clothing for movement and balance assessments

  • Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with your care team

How-to List: Differences Between MRI and Genetic Tests for Ataxia

  • MRI: Shows brain structure and can reveal cerebellar degeneration or other abnormalities

  • Genetic Testing: Looks for inherited gene changes that cause specific types of ataxia and helps clarify the diagnosis

Patient journey mapping at UC Health ensures that each step—from first symptoms to diagnosis—is coordinated and supportive. The Movement Disorders Center’s integrated approach means patients receive clear communication, advanced testing, and a plan built around their unique needs.

Treatment Options for Ataxia

At UC Health, treatment for ataxia brings together specialists from neurology, rehabilitation, nutrition, and genetics to address each patient’s unique needs. The care team develops a personalized plan that may include physical therapy to improve balance and walking, speech therapy for communication and swallowing, and nutritional support to correct vitamin deficiencies such as vitamin E.

  • Physical therapy: Focuses on balance retraining exercises and gait improvement

  • Speech therapy: Helps with speech clarity and safe swallowing

  • Nutritional support: Addresses vitamin deficiencies and overall health

  • Medications: Used to manage symptoms like muscle stiffness or tremors

  • Clinical trials: Offers access to new therapies, including RNA-targeted treatments

  • Practice daily balance exercises as recommended by your therapist

  • Use adaptive devices, such as canes or walkers, for safety and mobility

  • Maintain a nutritious diet with enough vitamin E, as advised by your care team

  • Some medications help reduce tremors or muscle stiffness, but may cause drowsiness or dizziness

  • Others target nerve pain or improve muscle control, with possible side effects like fatigue or upset stomach

UC Health offers affordable therapy options and connects patients to clinical trials for the latest ataxia treatments. Schedule a consultation with the Movement Disorders Center to explore your personalized care plan.

 

When to Seek Care for Ataxia

Recognizing when to seek medical evaluation for ataxia is essential for early intervention and better outcomes. New or rapidly worsening symptoms—such as sudden trouble with balance, speech, or coordination—should prompt a visit to a specialist.

  • New or rapidly worsening symptoms

  • Difficulty with daily activities due to coordination problems

  • Concerns about family history of ataxia

Early evaluation at the UC Health Movement Disorders Center can help identify the cause and connect you with the right care team. Acting quickly may also prevent complications and support a smoother patient journey.

  • Most evaluations are covered; UC Health financial counselors can help navigate insurance questions

If you notice changes in movement or coordination, schedule an evaluation with the UC Health Movement Disorders Center.

Living With Ataxia

Adapting to daily life with ataxia often means making practical changes at home and seeking support for both physical and emotional well-being.

Simple modifications, such as removing tripping hazards and installing grab bars, can help prevent falls and support independence. Assistive devices like canes, walkers, or specialized utensils may make everyday tasks safer and easier.

Nutritional support is important, especially for those on a budget. Choosing foods rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, can help support nerve and muscle health. UC Health’s care teams can connect patients with nutritionists who understand the unique needs of movement disorders.

  • Practice simple standing balance exercises near a sturdy surface

  • Try seated core strengthening routines to build stability

  • Stay connected with your care team for ongoing guidance

  • Join support groups to share experiences and learn from others

  • Encourage open and honest conversations about feelings

  • Reach out for mental health support when stress or anxiety becomes overwhelming

UC Health offers integrated mental health services and connects patients with community resources, ensuring support at every stage of the ataxia journey.

Compassionate Healing Starts Here

Click below to learn more about where you can find compassionate care.

Our internationally recognized team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, innovative care to people with Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders. Starting with a comprehensive assessment, our expert team ensures we have a thorough understanding of your individual symptoms to offer you the right diagnosis and the latest, most effective treatment options available.

To schedule an appointment, please call the James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Center for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders at 513-475-8730.

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