Is Dizziness Affecting Your Life? Discover How Vestibular Rehabilitation Can Help!
In today’s bustling world, maintaining our equilibrium is vital—countless individuals across the globe experience recurring bouts of dizziness and imbalance, commonly indicative of vestibular disorders. It is estimated that over 35% of adults aged 40 years or older in the U.S. – approximately 69 million Americans – have had vestibular dysfunction at some point in their lives.
Our bodies’ in-built “balancing machine,” the vestibular system, plays a crucial role in maintaining our sense of balance and helping us orient ourselves in space. Located in our inner ear, this system, through a complex system of pathways, ensures our bodies can tell where they are within the environment. The vestibular system, however, can also malfunction, resulting in vertigo, dizziness, vision disturbance, or imbalance.
While vestibular disorders can affect individuals of all ages, the risk significantly increases with age. In fact, approximately 40% of U.S. adults will experience some form of vestibular dysfunction during their lifetime. The progression and severity of these disorders can vary greatly, ranging from mild episodes of dizziness to more severe, chronic conditions that can dramatically impact a person’s quality of life.
Fortunately, vestibular rehabilitation, a specialized form of physical therapy, comes to the rescue when managing and potentially overcoming these disorders. Our highly skilled therapists use tailored exercises to reduce vertigo, dizziness, gaze instability, and/or imbalance and falls. By retraining the brain to utilize other senses to substitute or compensate for dysfunction in the vestibular system, clients often experience significant improvements in their daily lives.
Our expert physical therapists at Beyond Physical Therapy in Franklin, TN are highly trained in the latest vestibular rehabilitation techniques. They are committed to providing individualized, compassionate care to help you regain control of your life.
Understanding Dizziness and What’s Causing It
Vestibular disorders are problems associated with the inner ear and brain that result in dizziness and imbalance. The human vestibular system is a complex network, with the inner ear playing a significant role in providing your brain with information about the position and motion of your body. When this intricate system faces any disruption, it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo (a spinning sensation), balance problems, and more.
There are several potential causes for vestibular disorders, including but not limited to:
- Infections: Both viral and bacterial infections can cause inflammation in the inner ear, affecting your balance.
- Aging: As we get older, changes in our inner ear and our body’s ability to process balance information can lead to vestibular problems.
- Head or Ear Injuries: Trauma to the head or ear can damage the inner ear structures, resulting in dizziness or loss of balance.
- Certain Medications: Some drugs, especially those used to treat high blood pressure or seizures, can affect the vestibular system.
- Migraines: Some people may experience dizziness or balance issues during or after a migraine.
The good news is physical therapy at Beyond Physical Therapy can help. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), a specialized form of physical therapy, is designed to alleviate the symptoms of vestibular disorders. This therapy involves exercises that help the body and brain regain the processing abilities for balance and spatial orientation.
Our therapists trained in VRT will evaluate your symptoms and design a personalized treatment plan to improve your balance, decrease dizziness, and help you get back to your normal life.
Discover the Benefits of Vestibular Rehabilitation at Beyond Physical Therapy in Franklin, TN
Experience the difference of expertly guided Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy right here in Franklin, TN. Our skilled physical therapists can help you regain balance and stability, improve your mobility, and return to your daily activities with a renewed sense of confidence.
We start with a comprehensive evaluation by taking an in-depth look at your medical history, including any past illnesses or injuries that may contribute to your current condition. Next, we will use specialized vestibular testing techniques to accurately assess your symptoms and determine your most effective treatment strategy. These tests may include eye movements, balance, coordination, and more assessments.
Our highly trained physical therapists utilize proven strategies for vestibular rehabilitation, including the following techniques:
- Vestibular Habituation Exercise: These exercises aim to reduce symptoms brought on by specific movements or positions that trigger dizziness or imbalance.
- Gaze Stabilization Exercise: These exercises help improve control of eye movements so vision can be clear during head movement.
- Balance Training: Here, we work to enhance balance and stability through a series of exercises designed to challenge and improve your ability to maintain an upright posture.
- Functional Retraining: We help you incorporate vestibular exercises into daily activities, allowing you to navigate your everyday tasks easily.
Every treatment plan is personalized, designed with your unique needs in mind, and grounded in evidence-based research. Whether it’s a balance issue, dizziness, or vertigo, we have the tools and expertise to guide you toward recovery.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!