Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise-based form of physiotherapy that is used to help manage symptoms associated with dysfunction of the vestibular system. The vestibular system consists of small organs in the inner ear which are responsible for maintaining balance, as well as visual fixation while the head is moving (the vestibular ocular reflex). Symptoms of vestibular dysfunction may include:
- Dizziness
- Vertigo (sensation of spinning)
- Unsteadiness and impaired balance
- Oscillopsia (blurred vision that occurs with head movement)
- High incidence of falls (due to unsteadiness)
How Does Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy Work?
The goals of vestibular rehabilitation are to improve gaze stability, improve balance and postural control and reduce symptoms such as vertigo and dizziness. Vestibular rehabilitation includes exercises for the head, body, and eyes, in order to improve function of the vestibular system through adaptation and compensation. Your treatment may include a combination of hands-on techniques, visual exercises, and balance exercises.
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy can help with management of the following conditions:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Vertigo of Unknown Origin
- Vestibular Neuritis/Labyrinthitis
- Head Injuries and Labyrinth Concussion
- Vestibular Lesions
What To Expect In Your First Session:
Your physiotherapist will conduct a vestibular assessment, which may include moving your head through different positions, testing eye movement, and assessing balance and gait. In addition to a vestibular assessment, your physiotherapist will also take a health history and have a discussion with you about your experiences and goals in order to develop a personalized treatment plan to help you get back to feeling better.
Nicole Cesca
BSc (Honours) in Biochemistry, MScPT, PhD student
Registered Physiotherapist
As a past competitive hockey and soccer athlete as well as a varsity golfer, Nicole developed a keen interest in the biomechanics of the body and how certain exercises can be used to facilitate the body’s healing process. Nicole is devoted to helping others improve their quality of life and being able to function as the healthiest version of themselves. Nicole’s love for golf has led her to continue advancing her knowledge of connection between the body and golf swing. She plans to complete her Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) certification and is passionate about assessing golfers for specific movement patterns and assisting her patients in returning to the course.