Lifestyle Blog
October 01, 2026

PKD and Balance: Why It Matters and How to Prevent Falls | PKD Lifestyle

For people living with polycystic kidney disease (PKD), balance problems can be an overlooked challenge. PKD can affect the body in several ways that may make it harder to stay steady, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.

Why Can PKD Affect Balance?

PKD causes fluid-filled cysts to develop and grow in the kidneys. Over time, the kidneys can become much larger than normal. Cysts can also develop in other organs, such as the liver. This increase in size and weight around the abdomen can change how a person's body is positioned and how their weight is distributed. As a result, staying steady while standing or moving can become more difficult.

PKD can also contribute to other problems that affect balance, including:

  • Changes in blood pressure: Blood pressure may become too high or too low. A sudden drop in blood pressure can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing or exercising.
  • Muscle weakness: Reduced activity and changes associated with kidney disease can contribute to a loss of muscle strength, making it harder to maintain stability.
  • Anemia: Reduced kidney function can contribute to anemia, which may cause tiredness, weakness and reduced physical capacity.
  • Nerve problems: Advanced kidney disease can affect the nerves, potentially reducing the ability to sense where the feet and legs are positioned. This can make maintaining balance more difficult.

Therefore, balance problems in someone with PKD may be caused by a combination of changes directly related to the disease and other health problems that can occur alongside it.

Why Is Fall Prevention Important?

Falls are more than just a minor inconvenience. They can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, particularly around the hip and shoulder. The risk can be even greater for people taking several medications, as some medications can contribute to dizziness or increase the consequences of an injury.

Fall prevention is also particularly important for people who may eventually require a kidney transplant. A history of serious or repeated falls can be a sign that someone is becoming physically weaker or less independent. This may affect their ability to safely undergo and recover from a transplant.

Most importantly, good balance helps people maintain their independence. Being able to walk safely, move around the home and complete everyday activities can have a major impact on quality of life.

Simple Ways to Practice Balance

Balance can be practised safely through simple movements. If you are unsure whether an exercise is appropriate for you, speak with your healthcare provider or an exercise professional first.

Seated Weight Shifts

Sit upright near the edge of a sturdy chair with your feet supported. Without using your arms, slowly shift your weight toward one side, then slowly shift toward the other side.

Try: 5 repetitions to each side.

Tandem Stance

Stand near a sturdy surface that you can use for support if needed. Place one foot directly in front of the other, with the heel of the front foot close to the toes of the back foot. Maintain an upright position.

Try: Holding for up to 30 seconds, 2 times.

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Tree Pose

Keep one foot planted firmly on the ground, bringing your opposite foot either up onto your shin or up to your inner thigh. Maintain an upright position, keeping a proud chest and shoulders down.

Try: Holding for up to 30 seconds, 1 time per leg.

Having a stable surface nearby and another person present can be helpful when trying a new balance exercise.

When Should You Talk to a Healthcare Professional?

Balance changes should not simply be dismissed as a normal part of living with PKD. Talk to a healthcare professional if you experience:

  • Frequent dizziness or lightheadedness
  • A fall or repeated near-falls
  • Increasing difficulty walking or completing everyday activities
  • Balance problems that are interfering with your independence

Seek urgent medical attention if balance problems occur alongside fainting, sudden weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, chest pain or a significant injury such as a head injury or suspected broken bone.

In conclusion:

Balance problems in PKD can have several causes, including changes in body weight distribution, blood pressure, muscle strength, energy levels and nerve function. Recognizing these challenges early and taking steps to improve balance can help reduce the risk of falls, support independence and promote a better quality of life.

If you are living with PKD and notice changes in your balance, don't wait for a fall to happen. Bring your concerns to your healthcare team.

About the Author

Braiden Kinnaird is a kinesiology student at the University of Calgary, working toward his bachelor's degree. He recently completed a summer internship with the university's Exercise and Health Physiology program, working alongside exercise physiologists who specialize in supporting people living with chronic health conditions.

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