Vestibular Rehabilitation: What It Is and How It Can Help You
Have you ever wondered why the room spins when you roll over in bed, why you feel unsteady walking outside, or why a trip to the grocery store leaves you feeling light-headed? If so, you’re not alone. Dizziness and balance problems are common concerns, especially as we age. What many people don’t realize is that physical therapy can often help reduce these symptoms and improve overall balance and confidence.
Understanding Dizziness
“Dizziness” is a broad term that can describe a variety of sensations, including:
- Spinning or vertigo
- Light-headedness
- A lingering sense of movement
- Feeling off-balance or unsteady during everyday activities
There are many possible causes of dizziness. The systems responsible for balance involve the inner ear, eyes, brain, and nervous system, and an issue with any of these areas can lead to symptoms.
Common causes of dizziness and balance problems include:
- Loose crystals in the inner ear (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV)
- Previous strokes affecting the balance centers of the brain
- Neck problems
- Delayed or impaired eye movements
- Nerve damage affecting sensation and balance
These conditions can make it difficult for the body and brain to process changes in position and movement. As a result, everyday tasks such as getting out of bed, walking across the yard, driving, grocery shopping, bathing, or getting dressed may become challenging.
Why Balance Matters
Balance issues are more than just an inconvenience. They can significantly increase the risk of falls and injury.
According to a 2024 study published in Injury Prevention, healthcare spending related to non-fatal falls among older adults in the United States was estimated at $80 billion in 2020. Falls can result in fractures, head injuries, hospitalization, and a loss of independence.
The good news is that many falls can be prevented through proactive measures such as:
- Staying physically active
- Reviewing medications with a healthcare provider
- Improving nutrition
- Making safety modifications at home
- Participating in physical therapy
What Is Vestibular Rehabilitation?
Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to evaluate and treat dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders.
During an evaluation, your physical therapist will assess several factors that contribute to balance, including:
- How your eyes track moving objects
- Whether changing positions triggers symptoms
- How your body responds when balance is challenged
- Your strength, mobility, and overall stability
Using this information, the therapist develops an individualized treatment plan to address the underlying causes of your symptoms and help improve your safety and confidence with movement.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your therapy program may include a variety of exercises and techniques, such as:
- Watching/moving a target to help your eyes be able to follow objects more easily
- Standing on foam or a wobble board to help improve your balance receptors in your legs
- Moving around on a table to allow for crystals to be repositioned
- Strengthening exercises to help improve leg/core control when getting up out of a chair
- Neck stretching/Range of Motion (ROM) activities to allow for improved ease of movement
When Should You Seek Help?
If you experience dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness, or concerns about your balance, don’t ignore the symptoms. Effective treatment may be available.
Talk with your primary care provider about obtaining a referral for vestibular rehabilitation. Oaklawn has therapists specially trained in vestibular evaluation and treatment at physical therapy locations in Marshall, Albion, Coldwater, Olivet, and Battle Creek.
Our team is here to help you move with greater confidence, improve your balance, and get back to the activities you enjoy.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact your primary care provider and ask about a referral to Oaklawn Physical Therapy.
