Vestibular (Balance) Rehabilitation
Regain Balance, Restore Confidence, and Improve Quality of Life
If you suffer from dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems, you’re not alone. Many people experience these issues due to vestibular disorders affecting the inner ear and the brain’s ability to process balance signals. Thankfully, Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) can help you feel steadier on your feet and regain control over your daily activities.
At All Ears, we specialise in VRT, offering personalised treatment plans designed to reduce symptoms, improve balance, and enhance your overall quality of life.
What is the Vestibular System?
The vestibular system, located in your inner ear, plays a vital role in helping your body maintain balance and spatial awareness. It provides the brain with information about head movement and the position of your body in space.
When the vestibular system is affected by injury, illness, or age, it can cause dizziness, imbalance, and difficulty with coordination. Some common conditions that disrupt the vestibular system include:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) – A disorder where small crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and cause brief, intense episodes of vertigo.
- Vestibular Hypofunction – A condition where part of the vestibular system isn’t working as it should, causing balance problems.
- Meniere’s Disease – A disorder that causes episodes of vertigo, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and hearing loss.
- Labyrinthitis and Vestibular Neuritis – Infections of the inner ear that lead to dizziness and balance issues.
- Post-Concussion Syndrome – A collection of symptoms, including dizziness, that can persist after a head injury.
What is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is a specialised form of physical therapy designed to alleviate the symptoms caused by vestibular disorders. The goal of VRT is to help the brain adapt to changes in the vestibular system and restore normal balance function.
Through specific exercises and movements, VRT retrains the brain and the vestibular system, allowing you to manage dizziness and improve your balance. The therapy may involve:
- Gaze Stabilisation: Exercises that help improve the ability to focus on objects while moving your head.
- Balance Retraining: Activities aimed at improving your ability to maintain balance while walking or standing.
- Habituation Exercises: Exercises that reduce dizziness over time by gradually exposing the brain to specific movements that trigger symptoms.
- Canalith Repositioning: A series of movements to help move the dislodged crystals in your ear (used primarily for BPPV).
How Does VRT Work?
VRT works by helping your brain compensate for the loss or disruption in vestibular function. The therapy uses specific exercises designed to improve your balance, reduce dizziness, and retrain the brain to interpret balance signals correctly. The treatment can be tailored to your needs based on your diagnosis and how your symptoms affect you.
A typical VRT programme begins with a thorough assessment by a trained vestibular physiotherapist or an Audiologist. This assessment may include a review of your symptoms, physical examination, and tests to assess balance, eye movements, and coordination.
Once the assessment is complete, your specialist will develop a personalised treatment plan. This may include a combination of home exercises and supervised sessions to address your specific symptoms and goals. Many patients start to notice improvements after just a few sessions, though the full benefits may take several weeks or even months to fully realise.
Who Can Benefit from VRT?
VRT is suitable for anyone experiencing vestibular symptoms, including those with:
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Imbalance or difficulty walking
- A history of falls or fear of falling
- Sensitivity to motion
- Symptoms following a head injury or concussion
If you’re suffering from any of the conditions listed above, VRT could help you regain balance and confidence.
Why Choose All Ears?
At All Ears, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care for those with vestibular disorders. We are fully trained in vestibular rehabilitation techniques and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs.
- Experienced Specialists: Our Audiologist is highly trained and experienced in treating vestibular disorders.
- Personalised Treatment: We offer tailored therapy plans based on your condition and symptoms.
- A Dedicated App: Our sophisticated and user-friendly Vertigenious application allows patients to do the exercises at home in an informed and controlled manner
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Our clinic is equipped with the latest technology to ensure you receive the most effective treatment.
- Holistic Approach: We focus on your overall well-being, considering your lifestyle and goals throughout your rehabilitation process.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems are affecting your daily life, don’t wait to seek help. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy can help you feel more stable and confident, and get back to doing the things you enjoy.
