VESTIBULAR PHYSIOTHERAPY
Vestibular physiotherapy, also known as vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), is a specialized form of physical therapy focused on treating disorders of the vestibular system, which includes the inner ear and parts of the brain involved in balance and spatial orientation. This therapy aims to alleviate symptoms related to vestibular dysfunction and improve balance, stability, and quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.
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Vestibular physiotherapy can be beneficial for various vestibular disorders, including:
01. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is a common vestibular disorder characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by specific head movements. Vestibular physiotherapy techniques, such as the Epley maneuver or canalith repositioning maneuvers, can help reposition displaced otoconia (calcium carbonate crystals) within the inner ear's semicircular canals, alleviating vertigo symptoms.
04. Meniere's Disease​
Meniere's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear fullness. Vestibular physiotherapy strategies, such as balance training, vestibular habituation exercises, and lifestyle modifications, can help manage symptoms and improve functional outcomes for individuals with Meniere's disease.
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02. Unilateral or Bilateral Vestibular Hypofunction
This condition involves reduced or absent vestibular function in one or both ears, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, imbalance, and visual disturbances. Vestibular rehabilitation exercises, including gaze stabilization, habituation exercises, and balance training, can help compensate for vestibular deficits and improve stability and mobility.
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05. Motion Sensitivity and Visual Motion Sensitivity
Some individuals experience heightened sensitivity to motion or visual stimuli, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and disorientation. Vestibular physiotherapy can address motion sensitivity through desensitization exercises, balance training, and visual-vestibular adaptation techniques to improve tolerance to motion stimuli and reduce symptom severity.
03. Labyrinthitis and Vestibular Neuritis
Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis are inflammatory conditions affecting the inner ear's vestibular system, causing vertigo, nausea, and balance disturbances. Vestibular physiotherapy can help individuals recover from these conditions by promoting central nervous system adaptation, reducing symptoms, and restoring vestibular function through targeted exercises and habituation techniques.
Overall, vestibular physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the multidisciplinary management of vestibular disorders, helping individuals regain confidence in their balance and mobility, minimize fall risk, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Seeking help from a vestibular physiotherapist at Pimpama could be incredibly beneficial for managing vertigo. We can provide specialized assessment and treatment tailored to address the underlying causes of vertigo, helping individuals regain their balance, reduce dizziness, and improve overall quality of life. Don't hesitate to reach out to Pimpama vestibular physiotherapy if you're experiencing vertigo or other vestibular symptoms.