Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise based programme to improve balance and reduce dizziness related problems. A specially trained physiotherapist can design a program for you to improve balance and reduce problems related to dizziness.
Dizziness can be described as feelings of unsteadiness, swimming feeling in the head, lightheartedness, feelings of passing out, sensations of moving, spinning, floating and vertigo.
These feelings or sensations can occur when you are standing still, lying down or changing positions. The symptoms can be constant or episodic in nature, lasting only a few seconds or few hours.
Dizziness is generally not serious, but it is often a sign of a mechanical problem. Dizziness can be due to an inner ear disorder, a side effect of a certain medication, a neck dysfunction or it can be due to a more serious problem such as your brain or heart.
A physiotherapist can help relieve symptoms you are suffering with vestibular rehabilitation. At your initial appointment your physio will evaluate all your symptoms and review your medical history.
- Your assessment will include reviewing your:
- Generic balance and lower limb strength
- Gait (how you walk)
- Visual stability and mobility
- Neck mobility
Positional testing, including inner ear examination
Based on the findings your physiotherapist will create an exercise programme for you. The goal of the treatment plan is to improve any of the above symptoms you are experiencing. This in turn will improve your ability to function in activities of everyday living, reducing your risk of falling and improve your quality of life.