It's well known that hearing loss makes communication difficult but did you know it can also undermine your sense of balance and spatial awareness? For many, untreated hearing loss increases the risk of stumbling or falling sometimes with serious consequences.
At Hazelwood Hearcare, we serve communities across the Midlands Leamington Spa, Mount Sorrel, Loughborough, Derby, Matlock, Crick, Rugby, Daventry, and beyond with holistic care that connects hearing and balance. This guide explains why these senses are intertwined and what you can do to protect both.
Your inner ear called the labyrinth is responsible for two vital functions:
These systems share common structures, fluids, and the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII), so damage to one often impacts the other .
Our ears pick up ambient sounds like footfalls and spatial echoes, helping us navigate. When sound input is impaired, the brain loses vital context for body positioning .
When hearing is difficult, the brain allocates more resources to decode speech and ignore noise. This leaves less available for balance control, increasing fall risk
People with hearing loss often develop altered head and body postures to focus on what they can hear. Over time, this can cause imbalance and impaired coordination .
Hearing loss often discourages social and physical activity. Less movement means weaker muscles and coordination key ingredients for stable balance .
Early studies reveal that order hearing loss and especially sensorineural hearing loss strongly correlates with balance disorders and delayed motor skills in children .
This highlights the importance of pediatric hearing screenings something we advocate strongly at Hazelwood Hearcare.
Hearing aids, CROS devices, and bone-anchored systems can restore auditory input vital for balance .
Tailored exercises aim to re-train balance reflexes and build physical confidence.
Home audits, strength training, visual aids all combined in a multidisciplinary prevention plan.
Early interventions for children including physiotherapy and tailored education can correct balance delays and reduce injury risk.
Q: Can treating hearing loss reduce falls?
Yes, hearing aids significantly reduce fall risk by restoring balance cues .
Q: My dizziness is mild is that still a concern?
Absolutely. Early vestibular issues can escalate testing now can prevent future incidents.
Q: What about children?
Yes—vestibular screening is essential for children with hearing loss to support proper motor development
If hearing loss or dizziness is impacting your life or that of a loved one don’t wait:
📞 Call Hazelwood Hearcare Today to book a joint hearing and balance evaluation.
🗓️ Book Online at your nearest Midlands clinic:
Hearing isn't just about clarity in conversations—it's essential for physical stability. Impaired hearing disrupts balance systems, increases fall risk, and affects your quality of life. Hazelwood Hearcare offers comprehensive, regionally accessible solutions that bring together hearing care and balance support.
