Vertigo and vestibular rehabilitation are integral components of physiotherapy aimed at addressing issues related to the inner ear and balance system. Vertigo, often described as a spinning sensation, can be debilitating and significantly impact daily activities. At Actilife Physiotherapy and Rehab Clinic, Coquitlam we provide Vestibular rehabilitation, also known as vestibular therapy, which is a specialized form of physiotherapy, that focuses on improving balance, reducing dizziness, and enhancing overall quality of life for individuals experiencing vertigo and other vestibular disorders.
Causes and Symptoms of Vertigo:
Vertigo can be caused by various factors, including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Inner ear crystals become dislodged and cause brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position.
- Vestibular Neuritis: Inflammation of the vestibular nerve, often due to a viral infection, leading to sudden and severe vertigo.
- Meniere’s Disease: Excessive fluid buildup in the inner ear, resulting in recurrent episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
- Labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear structures, typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection, resulting in vertigo, hearing loss, and nausea.
- Migraine-associated Vertigo: Vestibular symptoms occurring in conjunction with migraine headaches, such as dizziness, vertigo, and visual disturbances.
Symptoms of vertigo may include:
- Spinning sensation or feeling of motion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Loss of balance
- Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
Principles of Vestibular Rehabilitation:
Vestibular rehabilitation is based on the principles of adaptation, habituation, and compensation. The goal is to promote central nervous system adaptation to vestibular dysfunction, reduce symptoms of dizziness and vertigo, and improve balance and stability. Vestibular rehabilitation programs are individualized to each patient’s specific needs and may include a combination of exercises, techniques, and education aimed at achieving optimal outcomes.
Common Exercises and Techniques:
Vestibular rehabilitation exercises and techniques may include:
- Gaze Stabilization Exercises: These exercises involve focusing on a stationary object while moving the head to improve gaze stability and reduce dizziness during head movements.
- Balance Training: Balance exercises, such as standing on one leg, walking on uneven surfaces, and performing dynamic balance tasks, help improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.
- Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Specific maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver or Semont maneuver, are used to reposition displaced inner ear crystals (otoconia) in cases of BPPV, relieving symptoms of vertigo.
- Habituation Exercises: These exercises involve repeated exposure to movements or activities that provoke dizziness or vertigo, helping the brain adapt and reduce symptoms over time.
- Brandt-Daroff Exercises: These exercises involve a series of head and body movements performed to desensitize the vestibular system and reduce symptoms of vertigo.
Conditions Treated with Vestibular Rehabilitation:
Vestibular rehabilitation can be beneficial for a variety of vestibular disorders, including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Vestibular rehabilitation can help manage symptoms and prevent recurrences of BPPV through canalith repositioning maneuvers and habituation exercises.
- Vestibular Neuritis and Labyrinthitis: Vestibular rehabilitation can aid in central compensation and adaptation following acute vestibular events, reducing symptoms of dizziness and vertigo.
- Meniere’s Disease: Vestibular rehabilitation can help individuals with Meniere’s disease improve balance and reduce symptoms of vertigo, dizziness, and disequilibrium.
- Post-concussion Syndrome: Vestibular rehabilitation may be beneficial for individuals experiencing persistent dizziness, balance problems, and visual disturbances following a concussion or traumatic brain injury.
- Age-related Balance and Gait Disorders: Vestibular rehabilitation can help older adults improve balance, reduce fall risk, and maintain independence by addressing age-related changes in the vestibular system.
How does Vestibular Rehabilitation Helps:
Vestibular rehabilitation helps individuals regain their balance, reduce dizziness and vertigo, and improve overall function and quality of life. By promoting central nervous system adaptation and compensation, vestibular rehabilitation can alleviate symptoms, improve balance and stability, and enhance mobility and confidence in performing daily activities. With a tailored rehabilitation program and guidance from a skilled physiotherapist, individuals can overcome the challenges associated with vestibular disorders and regain control of their lives.
In conclusion, vertigo and vestibular rehabilitation play crucial roles in managing vestibular disorders, improving balance and stability and empowering you to regain your balance and confidence and get back to doing the things you love.
If you experience symptoms of a vestibular disorder, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your condition and determine if vestibular rehab is a suitable treatment option for you.