What is Ataxia?

Ataxia means “the loss of full control of bodily movements”. Ataxia is the term for a group of rare conditions that cause loss of muscle control and coordination. People with ataxia often have problems with walking, speaking, swallowing, balance, vision and other bodily functions that need a high degree of control.
The term “ataxia” is also used to describe symptoms of incoordination that are associated with infections, injuries, and diseases, including degenerative diseases of the nervous system.