Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
Evidence has shown that vestibular rehabilitation can be effective in improving symptoms related to many vestibular (inner ear/balance) disorders. People with vestibular disorders often experience problems with vertigo, dizziness, visual disturbance, and/or imbalance. These are the problems that rehabilitation aims to address. Other problems can also arise that are secondary to vestibular disorders, such as nausea and/or vomiting, reduced ability to focus or concentrate, and fatigue.
Symptoms due to vestibular disorders can diminish quality of life and impact all aspects of daily living. They also contribute to emotional problems such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, one of the consequences of having a vestibular disorder is that symptoms frequently cause people to change their lifestyle in order to avoid bringing on, or worsening, dizziness and imbalance. As a result, decreased muscle strength and flexibility, increased joint stiffness, and reduced stamina can occur.
Our treatment strategies can also be beneficial for these secondary problems. The goal of VRT is to use a problem-oriented approach to helping you feel and function better. This is achieved by customizing exercises to address each person’s specific problems.
What should you expect from Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?
VRT is usually performed on an outpatient basis, although in some cases, the treatment can be initiated in the hospital. Our patients are seen by our licensed physical therapist.
VRT begins with a comprehensive clinical assessment that includes collecting a detailed history of your symptoms and how these symptoms affect your daily activities. The therapist will document the type and intensity of symptoms and discuss the precipitating circumstances.
Additionally, information about medications, hearing or vision problems, other medical issues, history of falls, previous and current activity level, and the patient’s living situation will be gathered.