New Year, Better Balance: Protecting Your Inner Ear in 2026
January is a great time to check in on a part of your body you probably never think about… your inner ear.
Your inner ear does not just help you hear – it also plays a huge role in your balance. When it is not happy, you might notice:
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness or feeling like the room is spinning
- Trouble keeping your balance
- Muffled hearing or ear fullness
To support your inner ear health this year, try the following:
- Turn it down: Keep headphones at 60% volume or less and give your ears breaks. Long, loud listening can damage the tiny hair cells in your inner ear that don’t readily regenerate.
- Move for your balance: Gentle movement like walking, yoga, tai chi, or simple balance exercises (standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking) can help your brain and inner ear work together more smoothly.
- Watch your winter colds: Congestion and ear infections can affect the middle ear and may even affect the inner ear. Treat colds early, stay hydrated, and see a professional if you notice ear pain, pressure, or sudden changes in hearing.
- Protect your ears from noise: Going to concerts, using power tools, or working in noisy environments? Use earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing long-term.
- Know when to get checked: If you are experiencing frequent dizziness or ringing or any changes in your hearing, do not ignore it. It’s best to catch any problems early.
“Even subtle changes in your hearing or balance can be important,” says Kevin Peng MD, neurotologist (ear surgeon) at PIH Health House Clinic. “If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Get it checked!”
New year reminder: your balance, clarity, and confidence in everyday activities all depend on those tiny structures in your inner ear. Be kind to them this year. To find a doctor, go to PIHHealth.org/Doctors
