Client Review
“Today was my last day for my treatment on my left arm. The pain I was in from the torn rotator cuff has been releaved. The staff and Dr Lemoine were very pleasant. I would recommend them to my friends.”
Carol S.
Vestibular Dysfunction
Over 69 million people have experienced vestibular dysfunction at some point in their lives. People with vestibular disorders often experience problems with vertigo, dizziness, visual disturbance, and/or imbalance. It is an exercise-based program primarily designed to reduce these symptoms.
What is the Vestibular System?
Your vestibular system is composed of three canals and two sacs filled with fluid. The fluid shifts when you turn your head or change positions and stimulates hair cell receptors to tell the brain what’s happening. The brain then uses this information to maintain balance and help the eyes stay focused. Problems in the vestibular system can be caused by how/when the receptors fire or by problems with the nerves that transmit this message to the brain.
What Is Vestibular Balance Rehabilitation Therapy?
Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise-based program, designed by a specialized physical therapist, to improve balance and reduce problems related to dizziness. It may help control symptoms, reduce functional disabilities and improve quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Vestibular Disorders
A majority of adults living with vestibular disorders often go undiagnosed and untreated, resulting in a diminished quality of life and inability to perform the normal activities of daily living. Patients suffering from vestibular disorders often experience:
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Positional or persistent vertigo
- Nausea
- Impaired postural control
At LeMoine Physical Therapy, VRT is a physical therapy program that is often suggested to help patients that are suffering from vestibular dysfunction.
Vestibular Therapy Services include
- Canalith repositioning/Epley maneuver
- Habituation techniques
- Adaptation exercises
- Gaze stabilization exercises
- Balance training
- Gait training (how you walk)
- Visual stability and mobility
- Position testing
- Transfer training
- Fall prevention
- Self-management techniques
- Patient and family education
Expected vestibular rehabilitation outcomes include:
- Decreased risk of falling
- A decrease in dizziness symptoms
- Improved balance
- Improved ability to stabilize vision/gaze
- Increased body strength
- Return to prior level of movement/function
- Increase in confidence in ability to maintain balance
- Improved neck motion, reduced symptoms
How successful is vestibular rehabilitation therapy?
Many times, vestibular rehabilitation therapy will be the only treatment needed. Other times, it is a part of the presurgery/postsurgery treatment plan. In most cases, if patients continue to perform the exercises they have learned, balance and dizziness problems decrease significantly or completely disappear.
Your Journey Through Balance Rehabilitation Therapy
When undergoing vestibular balance rehabilitation therapy many patients enter with questions about what the process will involve and how it can help them. This form of therapy is designed to address issues in the vestibular system, which is a key component in maintaining balance and spatial orientation.
Initial Assessment And Personalized Plan
The first step in your therapy will be a comprehensive assessment. During this phase, LeMoine Physical Therapy will conduct various tests to determine the specific nature and severity of your balance problems. It’s important for us to understand all the factors that might be affecting your balance, including any underlying health conditions. From here, we create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Therapeutic Exercises And Activities
The core of vestibular balance rehabilitation therapy involves a series of hands-on, targeted exercises and activities. These are designed to improve your body's ability to maintain balance and strengthen the connections between your brain and the parts of the inner ear that help control balance. The exercises might include activities that challenge your balance, coordination and focus. We'll guide you through each exercise, ensuring you perform them safely and effectively.
Progress Monitoring And Adjustments
As you progress through the therapy, we will continuously monitor your improvement. This ongoing assessment allows us to make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. With over seventeen years of experience, our goal is to ensure that the therapy is responsive to your improving condition, pushing you to gain better control over your balance in a gradual and steady manner.
Integration Of Home Exercises
An important part of your therapy will involve exercises that you can do at home. We will provide you with detailed instructions and support materials to help you perform these exercises correctly. Practicing regularly at home will significantly enhance the effectiveness of your therapy and speed up your progress. This integrated approach ensures that you are actively participating in your recovery every step of the way.
Support And Education
Throughout your therapy, we’re here to provide not just physical support, but also education about your condition. Understanding the reasons behind your balance issues and how the exercises are helping can be incredibly empowering. We believe that an informed patient is better able to participate actively in their own recovery.
Preparing For The Conclusion Of Therapy
As you approach the end of your therapy program, we will prepare you for the next steps. This includes strategies to manage any ongoing symptoms and how to prevent potential future problems. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge and tools to maintain your improved balance independently.
Join Us On The Path To Improved Balance
If you or someone you know is struggling with balance issues, consider how vestibular balance rehabilitation therapy might help. We invite you to reach out to us at LeMoine Physical Therapy to discuss how we can support you on your journey to regaining confidence in your movement. Together, we can work towards achieving a more stable and active life. Call us today to schedule your initial assessment and take the first step toward effective recovery.