vESTIBULAR REHABILITATION
Vestibular disorders affect the balance centres in the inner ear, which can cause dizziness and loss of balance. Vestibular conditions treated include;
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Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo occurs when crystals from the inner ear become dislodged and move into one of the semi circular canals. This causes a sensation of a spinning dizziness on certain head movements or positions.
If you are found to have signs of BPPV during your assessment we can complete canalith repositioning procedures, such as the Epley Manoeuvre which is effective in resolving dizziness in the majority of cases of individuals with BPPV. (Almohiza, 2023)
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Vestibular neuritis is caused by inflammation of the 8th cranial nerve, causing a sudden onset of severe dizziness and vomiting.
Often symptoms resolve spontaneously, but if your symptoms persist, vestibular rehabilitation can improve the function of the vestibular system, reducing dizziness and improving balance.
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Labyrinthitis is caused by an inner ear infection, and can cause severe dizziness, loss of balance and affects hearing.
Labyrinthitis can resolve spontaneously, and medications can help to manage your symptoms, but if symptoms persist, physiotherapy can teach exercises to improve the function of the vestibular system, improving balance and reducing dizziness.
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Persistant postural perceptual dizziness is chronic dizziness, which is aggravated by upright postures, and generally settles when lying down.
Physiotherapy can gradually reduce your sensitivity to upright postures, and head and eye movements, to allow you to improve your functional abilities.
We use techniques such as the Epley manoeuvre, BBQ roll manoeuvre, habituation, substitution and adaptation exercises. The technique adopted in your treatment plan will be based on the outcome of your individual assessment.
There can be a higher incidence of vestibular disorders in individuals with a neurological diagnosis. We will therefore complete vestibular screening where appropriate in all individuals with a neurological diagnosis, with a presentation of reduced balance and/ or dizziness.