Vestibular

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of physical therapy? Odds are that you associate PT with sports injuries, surgery recovery or other orthopedic issues. But physical therapy is much more than that.

Vestibular rehabilitation is a PT sub-specialty focused on managing the symptoms of vestibular (inner ear) disorders. Vestibular issues can include:

• Dizziness
• Balance issues
• Migraines
• Vertigo (including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo)
• Faintness and lightheadedness

Our vestibular rehabilitation specialists will perform an initial evaluation of your condition and identify any specific problem areas. Together, you’ll form a personalized treatment plan to reduce your vestibular symptoms and improve your quality of life. Treatments may include sensory motor training, balance retraining, strengthening exercises and BPPV maneuvers and repositioning.

Contact our team nearest you to get started.

Content Spotlight:
Navigating Balance - The Benefits of Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy

Maintaining balance is an essential aspect of our daily lives, allowing us to stand, walk, and move with ease. The vestibular system, located within the inner ear, plays a crucial role in this delicate equilibrium. When this system is disrupted, individuals may experience vertigo, dizziness, and impaired balance. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is a specialized treatment designed to address these issues and restore equilibrium. LGH therapists specialize in this and are here to help. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of VRT, exploring its benefits, techniques, and how it can make a significant difference in the lives of those dealing with vestibular disorders.

Understanding the Vestibular System:
Before we delve into VRT, let's grasp the basics of the vestibular system. This system comprises tiny fluid-filled canals and sacs located in the inner ear. It works in tandem with visual and proprioceptive systems to maintain balance and spatial orientation. Any disruption to this intricate system, often due to issues like inner ear infections, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), or labyrinthitis, can lead to vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance.

What is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)?
VRT is a specialized form of physical therapy that aims to address issues arising from vestibular disorders. The therapy is tailored to each individual's specific needs and involves a series of exercises and maneuvers designed to gradually desensitize the vestibular system, enhance its functioning, and improve overall balance and stability.

Benefits of VRT:

1. Reduced Vertigo and Dizziness: VRT helps individuals overcome the sensation of spinning or dizziness often associated with vestibular disorders. By gradually exposing the vestibular system to controlled movements, it aids in desensitizing it and reducing these symptoms.

2. Improved Balance and Stability: The core objective of VRT is to enhance balance and stability. Through targeted exercises, individuals can retrain their brain to process sensory information accurately, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall mobility.

3. Enhanced Quality of Life: Living with vertigo and imbalance can be debilitating, limiting one's ability to carry out routine activities. VRT offers the promise of improved quality of life by enabling individuals to regain their independence and confidence in their movements.

VRT Techniques:

1. Eye-Head Coordination Exercises: These exercises focus on enhancing the coordination between eye movements and head movements, a crucial skill for maintaining balance.

2. Gaze Stabilization Exercises: By training the eyes to remain fixed on a specific target even during head movement, individuals can reduce dizziness and improve focus.

3. Canalith Repositioning Procedures: Specifically used for BPPV, these maneuvers involve positioning the head in certain ways to guide displaced particles within the inner ear back to their original location, alleviating vertigo.

4. Balance Training: This involves a series of exercises that challenge balance and stability. It can include standing on unstable surfaces or practicing movements that mimic daily activities.

Is VRT Right for You?
VRT is generally recommended for individuals diagnosed with vestibular disorders, such as BPPV, vestibular neuritis, or Meniere's disease. However, it's essential to consult a medical professional, typically an otolaryngologist or a physical therapist, before undergoing VRT. They will evaluate your condition and determine if this therapy is appropriate for you.

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy is a specialized and effective approach to address the challenges posed by vestibular disorders. By gradually retraining the brain and desensitizing the vestibular system, individuals can experience reduced vertigo, improved balance, and enhanced quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with vertigo, dizziness, or balance issues, VRT could be the path to regaining control and navigating life with steadiness and confidence. Remember, seeking guidance from medical professionals at LGH is the first step towards finding the balance you deserve.

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