Understanding Proprioception
What is proprioception?
The body’s sense of its own position, movement and actions in space.
Proprioception gives us the ability to perform tasks like walking, maintaining balance, reaching and using utensils without needing to look at our body
Think of it as your body’s internal GPS — constantly sending messages to your brain about what your joints, muscles, and tendons are doing.
Often proprioception is considered to be your “sixth sense”
Why does proprioception matter?
In some neurological conditions – such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease or brain injuries – proprioception can be affected.
This may lead to symptoms such as:
Clumsiness or uncoordinated movement
Impaired balance
Falls
Trouble judging and knowing where your limbs are
Specific impairments, such as knee hyperextension whilst walking
Proprioception vs Neglect:
These are both terms often spoken about in physiotherapy, especially when concerning strokes or brain injuries. Whilst both affect how you move and interact with your environment there are some key differences to understand.
Proprioception = your body’s awareness
Neglect = the brain ignores one side. A problem of attention and awareness, not sensation or muscle strength
Other impairments to be distinguished from proprioception include; muscle weakness, balance disorders (such as vestibular), visual impairment, coordination issues and apraxia (issues with motor planning).
Sometimes, multiple factors and impairments can contribute to presentation, emphasising the importance of a thorough assessment.
How can physiotherapy help with proprioception?
The good news is proprioception can be targeted, retrained and worked upon through therapy. At Neuro Junction we use evidence based practice to help assist with proprioception deficits, if identified.
This may include
Balance training
Closed eye movement tasks
Weight bearing activities
Sensory stimulation
Joint position sense training
Gait retraining
If you or a loved one are experiencing issues with movement, balance or coordination, proprioception may be a part of the picture. Our team at Physio Express is here to support you in your rehabilitation journey.
Appointments can be made in the clinic at Palm Beach or at home in the community.
Author: Samantha Glasby (Physiotherapist) Physio Express