What is Vestibular Physiotherapy?
Vestibular physiotherapy, also known as vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on treating disorders and conditions affecting the inner ear and balance system.
Here's a breakdown of what it is and how it can help:
What does it treat?
Vestibular physiotherapy addresses a range of conditions causing dizziness, vertigo, balance problems, and nausea, including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A common inner ear condition causing brief episodes of dizziness triggered by head movements.
- Meniere's disease: An inner ear disorder causing episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and hearing loss.
- Labyrinthitis / vestibular neuritis: An inflammation of the inner ear leading to vertigo, dizziness, and hearing loss.
- Vestibular migraines: Migraines associated with additional symptoms like dizziness, vertigo, and nausea.
- Post-concussion syndrome: Lingering symptoms like dizziness and balance problems after a head injury.
How does it work?
Vestibular physiotherapy uses a combination of exercises and techniques to help retrain the brain and improve the way it processes information from the inner ear, eyes, and other sensory systems that contribute to balance.
Here are some examples of what a vestibular physiotherapy program might involve:
- Canalith repositioning maneuvers: Specific head movements designed to treat BPPV.
- Gaze stabilization exercises: Training the eyes to track smoothly and stabilize gaze during head movements.
- Balance retraining exercises: Specific exercises to improve balance and coordination.
- Habituation exercises: Activities that gradually expose the individual to situations that trigger their symptoms, helping them desensitize and adapt.
Benefits of vestibular physiotherapy:
- Reduced dizziness and vertigo
- Improved balance and coordination
- Decreased falls risk
- Enhanced quality of life
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, consulting a healthcare professional and seeking evaluation for vestibular physiotherapy might be beneficial. Your doctor can assess your specific condition and determine if this form of therapy is right for you.
More about Faye
Faye is a dedicated and experienced physiotherapist specialising in treating conditions that cause vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance. Her passion for improving patients' lives began during her time at the Falls Prevention Service for the NHS, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals struggling with these issues.
Driven by this passion, Faye embarked on a journey to deepen her knowledge and expertise. She completed the world-renowned intensive course, "Vestibular Rehabilitation: A Competency-based Course," equipping her with the latest evidence-based techniques to effectively treat vestibular dysfunction.
What sets Faye apart:
- Over 18 years of experience as a physiotherapist: Faye brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each patient encounter.
- Specialisation in vestibular rehabilitation: Faye is dedicated to staying at the forefront of this specialised field, ensuring her patients receive the most effective treatment available.
- Compassionate and empathetic approach: Faye understands the frustration and anxiety associated with dizziness and imbalance, and she provides a supportive and understanding environment for her patients.
- Individualised treatment plans: Faye creates personalised programs tailored to each patient's unique needs and goals.
- Clear communication and education: Faye believes in empowering her patients by providing them with a clear understanding of their condition and treatment plan.
In her spare time, Faye enjoys staying active as a keen netballer and mum of three!