Vestibular Therapy

The Basics of Vestibular Therapy at Rehab Planet

Vestibular therapy, also known as vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to alleviate symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders. Through a series of exercises and maneuvers, vestibular therapy from Rehab Planetaims to improve vestibular function and reduce vestibular defects in your body.

The vestibular therapy process may include gaze stabilization exercises, balance training, habituation exercises, and canalith repositioning maneuvers. Vestibular therapy is highly effective in reducing symptoms, improving balance and coordination, and restoring confidence in daily activities for patients with vestibular disorders. Through our Vestibular therapy services, we aim to restore normal balance and functions for our patients.

What more to know about the Human Vestibular System?

The human vestibular system is a complex sensory system responsible for maintaining balance and coordination of movement. Located within the inner ear, the vestibular system consists of the vestibular apparatus, which includes the vestibular organs. These structures contain specialized sensory cells called hair cells, which detect motion and changes in head position.

When the head moves, the fluid within the semicircular canals shifts, causing the hair cells to bend and generate signals that are transmitted to the brainstem and cerebellum. These signals are then processed with visual and proprioceptive information to maintain balance and coordinate movements

The vestibular system plays a crucial role in various functions like control and coordination, maintaining posture, and contributing to spatial awareness. Dysfunction of the vestibular system can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and nausea. These might look like generic problems, but because of their recurrence, they can affect a person’s daily activities and lifestyle.

Conditions and symptoms of Vestibular disorders

Here are the most common vestibular defects that might manifest in a person.

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

• Meniere’s Disease

• Vestibular Neuritis

• Labyrinthitis

• Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome

Below are the most common symptoms and signs of vestibular problems in your body.

• Vertigo

• Dizziness

• Imbalance

• Nausea

• Pain in the neck

Who should opt for vestibular therapy?

Vestibular therapy is beneficial for individuals experiencing a wide range of vestibular disorders or symptoms. Anyone who struggles with vestibular symptoms, as stated above, may benefit from vestibular therapy offered at Rehab Planet.

Our team of therapists tries to monitor your symptoms and conduct tests to figure out your underlying vestibular defect before they treat you. Individuals diagnosed with vestibular disorders such as BPPV, Meniere’s disease, vestibular neuritis, and labyrinthitis are people who need vestibular therapy. These conditions can significantly impact balance and coordination for a person.

Here are the tests that our team will perform on you to find out your vestibular defect before treatment-

• Clinical History and Physical Examination

• Cranial Nerve tests

• Balance testing

• Gait testing

• Dix-Hallpike Maneuver

Individuals experiencing chronic dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance of unknown origin may also benefit from vestibular therapy. Even if a specific vestibular disorder has not been diagnosed, vestibular rehabilitation can help alleviate symptoms, improve balance, and enhance overall functioning for the patient.

Our team will look at your symptoms and tests before choosing the therapeutic approach for the disorders. We understand that for different people, the defects might come up with different symptoms. We create tailor-made treatment plans for our patients so that they get relief from vestibular symptoms as soon as possible.

Vestibular therapy is suitable for anyone experiencing vestibular symptoms or balance-related issues. Our vestibular therapy services are extended to patients regardless of age, underlying condition, or severity of symptoms. By addressing vestibular dysfunction through targeted exercises, habituation techniques, and sensory retraining, vestibular therapy aims to reduce symptoms and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals affected by vestibular disorders.

A brief overview of Vestibular therapy exercises

Vestibular therapy includes a number of exercises that are particularly designed to bring relief to patients from their vestibular defects. We study the medical case and symptoms of the patient thoroughly before completely designing the exercise regime for the patient. Our therapists help our patients get used to selective exercises so that they can practice them on their own. By following our vestibular therapy exercises, patients see massive improvements in their symptoms and conditions.

Vestibular therapy exercises compensate for vestibular defects. The effect is not seen physically, but these changes will help improve the lifestyle and actions of the patients. Below are some of the exercises that our therapists recommend for patients.

Gaze Stabilization Exercises

Moreover, our physical therapists promote injury prevention and health maintenance through exercise programs. Our physical therapists also offer ergonomic education and lifestyle modifications.

Our Physical therapy services are a part of comprehensive healthcare, empowering individuals to live active, healthy lives. If you have been suffering from functional or mobility issues, contact the team of Rehab Planet and avail of our Physical therapy services today. We will help you regain your mobility and live a very active life.

Our physical therapists assess each patient’s unique needs and develop personalized treatment plans for patients and their maximum benefit.

Balance Training

Balance exercises aim to improve coordination and postural control. These may include standing on one leg, walking on different surfaces, or using balance boards or foam pads.

Habituation Exercises

Habituation exercises involve repeated exposure to movements or positions that provoke symptoms of dizziness or vertigo, with the goal of reducing sensitivity and improving tolerance over time.