Vestibular Physiotherapy

(Service offered by our Vestibular Physiotherapist, Jeff Slatten)

Vestibular physiotherapy, also known as vestibular rehab, is a specialized branch of Physiotherapy that focuses on treating individuals with vestibular disorders. The vestibular system is responsible for maintaining balance, spatial orientation, and coordinating eye movements. When this system is disrupted due to injury, disease, or other factors, it can lead to various symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo (a spinning sensation), imbalance, and visual disturbances. Vestibular physiotherapy aims to alleviate these symptoms and improve a person’s overall balance and quality of life.

Here’s how vestibular physiotherapy works:

  1. Assessment:

    The process typically begins with a comprehensive assessment by a trained vestibular therapist. This assessment involves gathering information about the individual’s medical history, current symptoms, and functional limitations. Various tests and measurements are conducted to evaluate the function of the vestibular system, as well as the person’s balance and gait.

  2. Individualized Treatment Plan:

    Based on the assessment findings, the vestibular therapist designs an individualized treatment plan tailored to the person’s specific needs and goals. The treatment plan may involve a combination of exercises, techniques, and strategies to address the underlying issues causing the vestibular symptoms.

  3. Habituation Exercises:

    For individuals experiencing dizziness and vertigo, the therapist may use habituation exercises. These exercises involve controlled exposure to specific movements or positions that trigger symptoms. Over time, repeated exposure can help the brain adapt and become less sensitive to these triggers.

  4. Gaze Stabilization Exercises:

    Visual disturbances are common with vestibular disorders. Gaze stabilization exercises focus on improving the coordination between eye movements and head movements. These exercises help reduce symptoms like blurriness and discomfort when looking around while moving.

  5. Balance Training:

    Balance exercises are a crucial component of vestibular rehabilitation. These exercises challenge the body’s ability to maintain stability in various positions, helping to improve overall balance and reduce the risk of falls.

  6. Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers:

    Certain vestibular disorders, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), can be treated with specific maneuvers designed to reposition displaced particles in the inner ear. These maneuvers aim to alleviate vertigo and dizziness associated with BPPV.

  7. Customized Home Exercise Programs:

    Vestibular therapists often provide patients with exercises to continue at home. Consistent practice of these exercises helps reinforce the progress made during therapy sessions.

  8. Education:

    Education plays a vital role in vestibular physiotherapy. Patients learn about their condition, the vestibular system, and strategies for managing symptoms in daily life. This education empowers individuals to better understand and cope with their symptoms.

  9. Progress Monitoring:

    Throughout the course of treatment, progress is closely monitored, and the treatment plan is adjusted as needed based on the individual’s response and improvement.

Vestibular physiotherapy is highly effective for many individuals with vestibular disorders, including conditions like BPPV, vestibular neuritis, and labyrinthitis. It can significantly reduce symptoms, improve balance, and enhance overall quality of life. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a vestibular therapist or an otolaryngologist, to determine if vestibular physiotherapy is appropriate for your specific condition and symptoms.