Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy intended to alleviate symptoms caused by disorders of the vestibular system. It is an exercise based treatment approach aimed towards reducing vertigo and other dizziness, visual disturbance, and imbalance/falls.
Vestibular disorders are caused secondary to reduced function of the inner ear. Vestibular therapy can be indicated for many conditions including BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)Unilateral Vestibular Hypofunction, Vestibular Neuritis/Labyrinthitis, Vestibular Migraine, Cervicogenic Dizziness.
If you have not yet been assessed or diagnosed with a vestibular condition, common symptoms that can be helped with vestibular rehabilitation include:
- Vertigo (sense of spinning)
- Oscillopsia (sense of rocking on a boat with movement)
- Dizziness at rest
- Dizziness or altered vision with head movements
- Neck tightness, stiffness and/or pain
- Imbalance and/or frequent falls
- Headaches
- Concussion
At your initial appointment, your physical therapist will take a detailed history of your symptoms and review any relevant medical history. Your assessment may also include other objective evaluations including:
- Visual stability
- Oculomotor function
- Standing balance
- Stability with walking
- Neck mobility and tenderness on palpation to various structures in your neck
- Inner ear positional testing
Treatment for vestibular dysfunction varies depending on exam findings, but often includes activities to stabilize your gaze, decrease motion sensitivity and improve balance.