Vestibular Rehabilitation

Vestibular RehabMany individuals experience episodes of vestibular disorders at some point in their lives. If the vestibular system is damaged, it disrupts the normal relationship of head and eye movements as well as the perception of center and postural adjustments needed to maintain your balance.

People with this disorder may experience dizziness, spinning, decreased balance, jumpy vision, nausea and decreased postural control. This can result in secondary symptoms including decreased energy levels, frustration and anxiety. Most individuals recover from a vestibular disorder quickly because the vestibular system is very adaptable.

The vestibular rehabilitation program is designed to decrease dizziness and restore balance, strength and postural control, along with promoting an independent lifestyle.

 

Vestibular rehabilitation can help with symptoms of:

  • dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, spinning or tilting
  • balance or visual disruption with head motion


TYPICAL DIAGNOSES FOR VESTIBULAR REHABILITATION INCLUDE:

  • labyrinthitis
  • vestibular neuritis
  • benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
  • Meniere's disease
  • bilateral vestibular dysfunction
  • central vestibular dysfunction

Initial evaluation

  • complete a functional assessment to identify the symptoms and the activities contributing to your symptoms
  • assess muscle strength, function, movement and flexibility
  • assess eye/head coordination
  • identify positions and/or activities that cause symptoms
  • create an individualized program

Exercise

  • teach position techniques that help reduce symptoms
  • improve balance to restore/improve functional independence and return to a normal lifestyle
  • improve strength and endurance
  • improve stability of vision during movement
  • stabilize movement through eye-head coordination activities