Are you dizzy or off-balance?
Many patients who get referred for vestibular rehabilitation have little knowledge of what the vestibular system is and what it does, let alone the therapy that it involves. We hope the information below will help you to understand vestibular rehab and how we can help you at Body Kinetics Rehab.
What is the vestibular system?
The vestibular system is the part of the inner ear and brain that processes information about balance and head position. It also is responsible for stabilizing vision during movement. If this system becomes injured through trauma, infection, autoimmune disease, or certain medications toxic to the vestibular organs, vestibular disorders can result.
What is vestibular rehabilitation?
Each patient is thoroughly evaluated to determine the best course of therapy. This evaluation includes an eye movement exam, a neurological screen, balance testing, an examination of your walking, and other tests involving position changes and movement. Your therapist may also look at your eyes under infrared light using specialized goggles. Certain eye movements are easier to see in the dark and allow your therapist to better determine your treatment.
1-on-1 for 1 Hour:
At Body Kinetics Rehab, your therapy will be provided one-on-one, by a licensed P.T., certified in Vestibular Rehabilitation, and also a member of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VEDA).
What are the most common symptoms of a vestibular problem? Dizziness (also may described as lightheadedness, floating, or rocking sensation) · Imbalance and unsteadiness · Vertigo (a spinning or whirling sensation) · Blurry or bouncing vision · Nausea Other symptoms that may accompany a vestibular disorder: · Fatigue · Headaches and neck pain · Intolerance to motion, noise, bright lights or busy scenes · Problems with thinking, concentration, and memory · Hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing or noises in one or both ears), and ear fullness
What are some common vestibular conditions treated in vestibular rehabilitation?
Vestibular patients sometimes receive a specific diagnosis; some are referred for general dizziness and imbalance. Some common diagnoses that may appear on your prescription are:
· BPPV (Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo)
· Unilateral and bilateral vestibular loss resulting from:
o Vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis
o Meneire’s disease
o Acoustic neuroma
o Perilymph fistula surgery
o Trauma, head injury, and stroke
· Migraine associated dizziness or vertigo
Common treatment interventions for vestibular disorders include:
· Positional maneuvers to treat BPPV (one common treatment is known as the Epley maneuver)
· Exercises to improve your balance and help stabilize your vision
· Activities and exercises to help you tolerate different situations and movements
· Education on symptom management, falls risk reduction and support available What should I do if I think I have a vestibular problem? You should first be seen by a physician who will determine if you need further evaluation and testing. You may then be referred to vestibular therapy. It is best to seek treatment from someone who has specialized training in vestibular rehabilitation. RESOURCES www.neuropt.org/go/special-interest-groups/vestibular-rehabilitation/patient-education-fact-sheets