Vestibular Rehabilitation: Regaining Balance and Reducing Dizziness
Vestibular Rehabilitation: How we can help
Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialised form of physiotherapy designed to alleviate symptoms related to inner ear disorders, such as dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues. These symptoms often arise from problems in the vestibular system, which includes parts of the inner ear and brain that help control balance and eye movements. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we offer comprehensive vestibular rehabilitation programs to help patients manage their symptoms, regain balance, and improve quality of life.
What is Vestibular Rehabilitation?
Vestibular rehabilitation involves a series of treatments and exercises tailored to each patient’s specific condition. The aim is to reduce dizziness, improve balance, and stabilise vision through conservative and gentle treatments. This type of rehabilitation can be beneficial for people with various conditions, including:
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A common cause of dizziness triggered by specific head movements.
Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear causing sudden onset vertigo and imbalance.
Meniere’s Disease: An inner ear disorder characterised by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
Concussion or Head Trauma: Damage to the brain or inner ear can lead to vestibular dysfunction and balance problems.
Chronic Dizziness or Balance Issues: Some individuals experience persistent dizziness or unsteadiness, which can often be helped with a tailored vestibular rehabilitation program.
How Does Vestibular Rehabilitation Work?
Vestibular rehabilitation typically involves three main types of exercises:
Habituation Exercises: These involve repeated exposure to movements or visual stimuli that provoke dizziness, helping the brain gradually adapt to these triggers and reduce symptoms over time.
Gaze Stabilisation Exercises: These exercises help improve control of eye movements, especially when the head is moving, which is vital for maintaining clear vision and preventing dizziness.
Balance Training: Balance exercises aim to improve stability and coordination, enhancing the patient’s ability to perform daily activities safely.
Benefits of Vestibular Rehabilitation
Reduction in Dizziness and Vertigo: Patients often experience a significant decrease in dizziness and vertigo symptoms, improving their ability to move freely.
Improved Balance and Stability: Enhanced balance helps reduce the risk of falls and increases confidence in daily activities.
Increased Independence: By improving symptoms, patients can return to work, hobbies, and social activities with greater ease.
Decreased Anxiety: Vestibular symptoms can be distressing; addressing them through physiotherapy can help reduce anxiety related to dizziness or imbalance.
Why Choose Brisbane Physiotherapy?
At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our trained therapists have experience in vestibular rehabilitation and understand the complexities of vestibular disorders. We provide individualised treatment plans that are specifically tailored to your symptoms and goals. Our approach is hands-on, with a focus on gradual progress to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Contact us today to book an assessment and start your journey to better health.
