Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy at Saint Anne's Hospital

What Is the Vestibular System?

The vestibular system is the part of the inner ear involved in controlling eye movement and balance. It is the body’s key sensory system for coordinating movement with balance.

Patients who have acute or chronic dizziness or problems of the inner ear that disrupt their everyday functioning and quality of life may benefit from vestibular rehabilitation. Through a series of special exercises, these and other related problems, such as nausea and/or vomiting, can be addressed.

One of the additional consequences of having a vestibular disorder is that symptoms frequently cause people to adopt a sedentary (not active) lifestyle in order to avoid causing, or worsening, dizziness, and imbalance.

Commonly used terms that describe symptoms of a vestibular disorder include:

• Dizziness - an impairment in spatial perception and stability
• Vertigo - a rotational or spinning sensation; the perception of movement, either of one’s self or surrounding objects

What Is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy? 

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy consists of a variety of exercises designed to improve a patient’s ability to function at home and in the community. Vestibular therapists tailor treatments specifically to each patient.

Treatment by a vestibular therapist often results in improved balance, decreased risk of falling, improved ability to stabilize vision and decreased dizziness. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy may last from one or two sessions to a few months.

Learn more about rehabilitation services at Saint Anne's Hospital