What is Vestibular Therapy and How Can It Help You?

The vestibular system, sometimes referred to as the inner ear, is responsible for your orientation or the awareness of your body’s position in relation to gravity. This system gives you your sense of upright in a static or still position as well as when you are moving. Vestibular system dysfunction has a wide range of symptoms and may be caused by a variety of problems such as BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), vestibular hypofunction, Meniere’s Disease, vestibular migraines, and more.

Physical therapists who help people with vestibular problems assess several things to determine the cause, including but not limited to:

  • Oculomotor (eye movement) function
  • Vestibular function
  • Balance function in still positions and/or during movement

Based on the results of these assessments, your therapist creates a treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

Here are some common activities that vestibular physical therapy can help:

  • Vertigo with positional changes caused by BPPV
  • Management strategies for Meniere’s Disease and vestibular migraines
  • Maintaining gaze within a moving environment (i.e., driving or riding in a car, walking, etc.)
  • Improving ability to tolerate busy visual environments such as the grocery store
  • Balancing while standing and/or moving with head turns, visual motion, and uneven surfaces
  • Developing your independence with management of specific symptoms

Our vestibular experts are located at multiple Sheltering Arms Institute outpatient locations. To schedule an appointment, please call (804) 764-1000 or visit www.shelteringarmsinstitute.com/conditions-and-services/vestibular-rehabilitation.

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Top Exercises for Sciatica Pain Relief

Sciatica refers to pain along the sciatic nerve, running from the lower back through the hips and legs. It’s often caused by nerve compression or irritation and may involve aching, sharp pain, numbness, or tingling. Learn how simple stretches, strengthening exercises, and low-impact cardio can help ease discomfort and support long-term relief.

5 Exercises for Runner’s Knee

Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, is a common overuse injury in runners. It leads to pain around or behind the kneecap, which becomes exacerbated with movement. Runner’s knee can be felt not only while running, but also when squatting, jumping, or going up or down stairs. Learn common causes and 5 exercises that can help runner’s knee.

Sleep Well, Live Well!

It is no secret that a full night of quality sleep is important for the day ahead; however, did you know that sleep represents a critical period of recovery and can have an effect on your perception of pain, cardiovascular health, and ability to heal? Learn tips to improve your sleep habits and enhance healing, reduce pain, and boost your overall health and well-being.

Staying Busy When You’re Bored: Getting Out Into the Community

As we age, staying engaged and finding new hobbies can be challenging, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Boredom, loneliness, and stress often stem from a lack of connection, and getting involved in the community can be a powerful remedy. Whether you want to give back, explore new interests, meet people, or learn something new, there are plenty of fun and meaningful ways to stay active and connected.

Pelvic Floor Exercises You Can Do At Home

If you have suffered from a pelvic floor dysfunction, then a pelvic floor exercise routine, commonly referred to as Kegel exercises, might be what you need to help strengthen these muscles.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.