Vestibular Rehabilitation: Regaining Balance and Reducing Dizziness

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. 

The clavicle, or collarbone, is a long, slender bone that sits horizontally at the top of the chest, connecting the arm to the body. It spans from the sternum (breastbone) in the centre of the chest to the acromion, which is the outermost point of the shoulder blade. The clavicle acts as a crucial support structure for the shoulder, enabling a wide range of arm movements while maintaining the stability of the shoulder joint. Additionally, it serves to protect important nerves and blood vessels that run underneath it, which supply the upper limb. 

Ulnar tunnel syndrome, also known as Guyon’s canal syndrome, is a condition that affects the ulnar nerve as it passes through a small tunnel on the pinky side of the wrist. This nerve controls sensation in the ring and pinky fingers and supplies motor function to some hand muscles. When the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it leads to pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in diagnosing, managing, and rehabilitating patients with ulnar tunnel syndrome, helping them regain full function and alleviate discomfort. 

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an advanced treatment technique used to manage chronic pain and improve functional outcomes in patients suffering from various spinal conditions or nerve-related disorders. It has shown promising results in aiding individuals with conditions like failed back surgery syndrome, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and neuropathic pain. For patients who struggle to find relief through traditional pain management therapies, SCS offers a potential solution by directly addressing nerve signal disruption. 

Radiofrequency neurotomy (RF neurotomy), also known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), is a medical procedure used to treat chronic pain, particularly in musculoskeletal disorders. The goal of RF neurotomy is to reduce or eliminate pain by disrupting the function of specific nerves that are transmitting pain signals. 

Facet joint injections are a specialised treatment to alleviate pain originating from the facet joints in the spine. These small joints are located between each vertebra and help provide stability and mobility to the spine. When inflamed or injured due to conditions like arthritis, degenerative changes, or trauma, facet joints can cause significant pain in the neck, back, and even radiating into the limbs. Facet joint injections offer a precise and minimally invasive way to manage this discomfort and improve mobility. 

A disc replacement is a surgical procedure designed to alleviate chronic back pain caused by degenerated or damaged intervertebral discs, which are the cushion-like structures between the vertebrae in the spine. The procedure involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with an artificial disc, which helps restore normal disc function and alleviate pressure on the spinal nerves. While disc replacement surgery can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility, a comprehensive rehabilitation program led by a physiotherapist is crucial for optimal recovery. 

A Cheilectomy is a surgical procedure often performed to relieve pain and improve function in people suffering from hallux rigidus, a form of arthritis that affects the big toe. Over time, wear and tear or injury can lead to the development of bone spurs at the top of the big toe joint, limiting motion and causing discomfort. During a Cheilectomy, these bone spurs are removed to restore motion in the joint. 

Cervical fractures, also known as broken necks, involve a break in one of the seven vertebrae in the cervical spine (C1-C7). These fractures can occur due to high-impact trauma such as car accidents, falls, or sports injuries. Depending on the severity, cervical fractures can range from minor cracks to life-threatening injuries that may affect the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or even death. Prompt medical attention is crucial, and once stabilised, physiotherapy plays a vital role in recovery, helping patients regain mobility, strength, and function. 

Calcific tendonitis is a painful condition caused by the buildup of calcium deposits in the tendons of the rotator cuff, most commonly in the shoulder. These deposits can lead to inflammation, pain, and restricted movement, making everyday activities difficult.