Besides hearing, the ear provides a sense of balance. If the inner ear, or vestibule, is affected by any of a variety of disorders, a person may suffer from dizziness or a diminished sense of balance.
To reduce the effects of vestibular disorders, Providence Rehabilitation Services offers comprehensive vestibular diagnostic testing as well as vestibular and balance therapies.
Vestibular and balance therapy may benefit people with:
Positional vertigo (BPPV)
Dizziness, vertigo or motion sickness
Chronic light-headedness or disorientation
Frequent falls or balance difficulties
Neurological conditions
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation by a physical therapist specially trained in vestibular and balance therapy. The evaluation includes an examination of balance reactions, vision and gait, and – if the patient is at risk for falling – posture, strength and joint mobility. They also analyze movements that provoke vertigo. Then an individualized treatment program will be designed, which may include balance and visual retraining, exercises to reduce sensitivity to movement or canolith repositioning.
Most health insurance plans will cover physical therapy treatment and diagnostic testing.
A physician’s referral may be required.
Vestibular and balance therapy is available from the following Providence Rehabilitation locations:
