Vestibular Physiotherapy

There are many vestibular disorders as well as alternative causes of dizziness that vestibular physiotherapists can assess, determine the cause of, and successfully treat.

What is a vestibular disorder?

The vestibular system includes the parts of the inner ear and central nervous system that process the sensory information involved with controlling balance and eye movements. If there is an injury or imbalance in these processing areas, vestibular disorders can result.

Symptoms that could suggest a vestibular disorder

Dizziness
Vertigo
Imbalance or unsteadiness
Motion sensitivity
Blurred vision
Sensitivity to visual stimulation
Associated symptoms: nausea, headaches, fatigue, anxiety

Common Types of Vestibular Disorders

The two most common conditions treated by a vestibular therapist are Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and Vestibular neuritis.

But other conditions that cause dizziness/vertigo and/or imbalance can also benefit of vestibular rehab intervention, such as:

post concussion
persistent symptoms in between episodes of Meniere’s disease or in between episodes of migraines
Accoustic Neuroma (vestibular schwannoma)
general imbalance

What can I expect from treatment?

Your first appointment will include a detailed vestibular assessment using Infrared Video Goggles performed by the physiotherapist to determine the most likely cause of your symptoms. You will be provided with education on your condition and an individualized home program, that will be monitored and progressed according to your needs. In some cases, the physiotherapist may consult with your family doctor for a referral to an ENT specialist or a neurologist.

Some of the treatments provided:

Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers
Habituation exercises
Gaze Stabilization exercises
Optokinetic Stimulation exercises (used to decrease symptoms caused by sensitivity to visual stimuli)
Balance Training