Vestibular physiotherapy, also known as Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT), is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to treat and manage symptoms caused by vestibular disorders. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. When this system is impaired, it can lead to dizziness, vertigo, balance issues, and other related symptoms.
VRT aims to retrain the brain and vestibular system to reduce these symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. This is achieved through a combination of therapeutic exercises and manual therapy techniques. The exercises are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and may include activities to improve gaze stability, motion stability, and balance.
Common conditions treated with vestibular physiotherapy include:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Vestibular Neuritis/Labyrinthitis
- Meniere’s Disease
- Vestibular Migraine
- Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS)
- Cervicogenic Dizziness
By focusing on these areas, vestibular physiotherapy helps patients manage their symptoms and regain their ability to perform daily activities without discomfort.