Why is my affected leg unable to float? Is this a problem with a pontine stroke because the stroke has affected my vestibular system?
Rolineon March 7, 2026
2 ResponsesI was a PE teacher for many years and had no problems with swimming.
2 Responses
Hi Roline,
Thank you for reaching out to the Stroke Foundation through Ask a Health Professional via EnableMe. We are sorry to hear about your stroke and the impact on your vestibular system. Your questions about why your affected leg is unable to float is an interesting one.
In general, after a stroke it’s quite common for the affected leg to behave differently in water. If your leg won’t float, it usually relates to changes in muscle tone, strength, and control after the stroke.
A few possible reasons include:
- Muscle weakness - When muscles are weak, the leg may not generate enough subtle movement or tension to help it stay lifted or aligned in the water, so it sinks more easily.
- Increased muscle tone or stiffness - If the muscles in your hip, knee, or ankle are stiff or pulling the leg downward, the leg can feel heavy and rigid, which may make it sink instead of floating naturally.
- Changes in body position and control - Stroke can affect proprioception (your sense of where your limb is in space) and postural control. In water, this can make it difficult to hold the leg in the right position and may drops downward.
- Reduced muscle activation - Floating often requires small stabilising muscle contractions. If the brain signals to the affected leg are reduced after stroke, the muscles may not activate enough to keep the leg buoyant.
- Swelling or altered muscle composition - Some people develop swelling or muscle loss in the affected limb. Changes in tissue composition can slightly affect buoyancy and how the limb behaves in water.
We’d recommend you be assessed by a physiotherapist who can advise you on your individual impacts that could be affecting your ability for your leg to float and provide you with some specific exercises and recommendations. Hydrotherapy or pool-based physiotherapy may be something to consider in supporting your rehabilitation.
If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on StrokeLine 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEDT.
All the best,
Bec – StrokeLine
It is caused by the stroke , it is quite common . Try physio and that might improve it .
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