This is suggestive of a positive Romberg’s sign.
That means the you relies heavily on vision to maintain balance. When vision is removed, proprioception (position sense from joints/feet) or vestibular function may be impaired
Possible causes:
-Sensory ataxia (proprioceptive pathway problem: dorsal column dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy,
vitamin B12 deficiency, etc.)
-Vestibular dysfunction (even if imaging normal, subtle vestibular hypofunction can cause imbalance with eyes closed).
Next Steps
1. Neurology follow-up for detailed examination of posterior column and peripheral nerves.
2. Blood tests –
Vitamin B12,
Vitamin D,
thyroid function, fasting glucose,
HbA1c.
3. Nerve conduction study (NCS/EMG) to check peripheral neuropathy.
4. Vestibular function tests (VNG, caloric test, VEMP).
5. Avoid situations where falling may cause injury until diagnosis is clear.
Health Tips
Always keep support nearby when standing with eyes closed.
• Avoid standing in risky places (stairs, uneven ground).
• If any new symptoms (numbness, weakness, vision changes, incontinence) appear, seek urgent neurological care.