The vestibular system is the sensory system that controls coordination and spacial orientation. The vestibular system includes parts of the inner ear and brain that help control balance and eye movements. Sometimes, this system can be damaged by disease, aging or injury and vestibular disorders are the result. If your vestibular system is damaged, you may benefit from Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT). VRT is an exercise-based therapy program used to decrease symptoms including imbalance, dizziness and vertigo.
Patients who would benefit from vestibular rehabilitation include those with:
- Vertigo
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- A Balance Disorder
- Disequilibrium
- A Concussion
Goals And Objectives of Therapy
Decrease in symptoms of vertigo and dizziness
Improved balance and thereby a decreased risk of falls
Improved gaze stability
What to Expect with Vestibular Rehabilitation Treatment
Patients can expect an individualized program that will include patient education. Therapy may also include:
Home exercise program
Repositioning maneuvers
Habituation exercises
Balance exercises
Gaze stability exercises
It should be noted that while patients are undergoing VRT, the treatment and assessments may bring on/trigger their symptoms. It is possible that patients may experience an increase in their symptoms for a few hours after treatment.
Referrals
To get a comprehensive overview of the Baptist Health Rehabilitation’s award-winning care, download our annual report.
