Vestibular Rehabilitation

The vestibular system includes parts of the inner ear and brain that process information involved in the control of balance and eye movements. If disease or injury damages these areas, vestibular disorders can occur resulting in dizziness, vertigo, nausea, balance problems, and other symptoms.

What causes Vestibular Disorders?

Vestibular disorders are common and may affect anyone at any time.

They are most often caused by:

• Head trauma (car accidents, falls, impact sports)
• Ear infections (Neuritis, Labyrinthitis)
• Aging
• Illness or disease
• Certain Medications
• Stroke and/or brain injury

Symptoms of a Vestibular Disorder

Symptoms of a vestibular disorder may include:

• Vertigo
• Dizziness
• A spinning sensation
• Difficulty reading or concentrating
• Poor balance
• Disorientation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Light and noise sensitivity

Many people are able to recover from these symptoms on their own after a few weeks of normal activity, however for those who are struggling with symptoms, we can help. Sports Medicine has Physiotherapists, Athletic Therapists and Chiropractors trained in vestibular rehabilitation. Our trained professionals can provide individualized treatment for people experiencing vestibular dysfunction.

Vestibular rehabilitation is a research-driven, exercise-based program designed to improve balance function, decrease dizziness/vertigo symptoms, and increase general activity levels. Vestibular rehabilitation can help with a variety of vestibular problems, including:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
• Unilateral or bilateral vestibular hypofunction (reduced inner ear function on one or both sides)
• Labyrinthitis
• Vestibular neuritis
• Post-concussion syndrome

One of our therapists will start by performing a thorough assessment of the following:

• Medical history (severity and frequency of your symptoms)
• Balance and gait
• Musculoskeletal system
• Eye - head coordination tests

Using the results of the assessment, your therapist will develop an individualized treatment plan that may include balance retraining exercises, specific vestibular exercises, manual therapy including repositioning maneuvers, and/or a home exercise program.

All 3 Sports Medicine clinics have therapists trained in Vestibular Rehabilitation - call any of them today for more information or to book an assessment.