The term “ataxia” refers to incoordination or clumsiness. Some forms of ataxia interfere with balance and walking. Of these ataxias, some are genetic and may be inherited. There are many different types, and symptoms can begin at different ages. Confirming the diagnosis (and identifying which specific ataxia it is) usually requires genetic testing. If a genetic ataxia is suspected, a patient should be referred to a specialist in ataxia or a genetic counselor.