Vestibular Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation is a specialised form of therapy that addresses the problems caused by Vestibular Disorders.
What Is Vestibular Physiotherapy?
Vestibular Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation is a specialised form of therapy that addresses the problems caused by Vestibular Disorders. If you are experiencing dizziness, vertigo and balance problems, this may be due to a problem with your inner ears, eyes and joints working together.
We need all these systems to work in harmony, to provide information that allows us to see clearly and have good balance. Other symptoms may include unsteadiness, feeling lightheaded, reduced confidence, inactivity, a loss of independence and an increased risk of falls.
We have physio practices across London and the South East to provide you with quick and convenient support and treatment. Our staff are invested in our ethos of making people better and this informs all of the work we do.
What Causes Vestibular Disorders?
There is a range of reasons as to why you may be feeling dizzy or have symptoms of vestibular disorders. The causes may come from ear infections; head injury; period of immobility; medication and increasing age.
Some people experience vertigo; a spinning sensation which can often cause nausea. This can commonly be due to a condition called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) where tiny fragments are floating around the fluid inside the inner ear. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) causes symptoms of dizziness, vertigo/spinning sensations when the head is placed in certain positions. Up to 30% of people may experience this following a head injury.
Ear infections such as viral infection of the inner ear, interfere with the function of the vestibular system. This condition is characterised by sudden onset, severe vertigo and loss of balance that persists for several hours to days. Imbalance and dizziness, particularly on fast head movements can then persist for several weeks to months. A vestibular rehabilitation program prescribed by a physiotherapist is very effective in improving the recovery of this condition.
Head injuries may affect how the inner ear, vision and balance systems work together as a system, and the brain can receive confusing signals regarding the position and movements of the head in space.
Concussion and whiplash injuries are very common with head trauma. The effects of these may be noticeable immediately, or they may take a couple of weeks to appear.
What Can You Do?
Seek advice from a physiotherapist who specialises in Vestibular Rehabilitation. We have a team of experts who will provide a thorough assessment and develop an individualised treatment programme with you. A management plan may include:
- Specific techniques to treat symptoms for BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
- Specific positional head movement techniques
- Eye and head movement exercises
- Exercises to improve standing balance
- Education and advice on activities of daily living to improve confidence and function
- Advice on falls prevention
Our Vestibular Physiotherapy is covered by major health insurers Bupa/Nuffield/TTN.
Book an appointment
If you’re in physical pain or have an injury, call your nearest clinic or book an appointment online. We usually have same day availability if you need urgent assistance.
