I've heard that doing Tai Chi is very good for you. It's supposed to improve balance but every time I do it, I get dizzy. What am I doing wrong?

You may not be doing anything wrong. The slow forward and sideways movements of Tai chi may be triggering an abnormal response in your inner ear or in the vestibular system. This can be checked by a doctor.

The vestibular or balance system sends information to the brain about movement and position in space. The inner ear is part of the vestibular system. Anything that changes the inner ear mechanisms can lead to dizziness.

In fact, there are many possible causes for dizziness. You should have this checked by a medical doctor. It could be something basic like an ear infection. Or you may have a problem with the vestibular system itself.

Many times vestibular problems can be treated quickly and easily by using specific positions of the head and body. Physical therapists and doctors trained in vestibular function can examine and treat you for this problem.

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