Dizziness and vertigo are frightening. The room may spin when you turn over in bed, you may feel unsteady walking in a busy place, or you may avoid going out for fear of falling. Many of these problems come from the vestibular system in the inner ear, which works with the eyes and body to keep you balanced.
Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialised form of physiotherapy that retrains this system. For many conditions it is the most effective treatment available, and some, such as BPPV, can often be improved in very few sessions.
Conditions we treat
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): short spins when turning in bed, looking up or bending
- Vestibular neuritis and labyrinthitis
- Dizziness and imbalance after concussion or head injury
- Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (ongoing dizziness and unsteadiness)
- Balance problems in older adults and fear of falling
- Unsteadiness after stroke or with neurological conditions
Assessment
We take a careful history of your symptoms and check eye movements, positional tests, walking, and standing balance in different conditions. This tells us whether the cause is likely to be in the inner ear, the brain or elsewhere, and whether you need to see our neurologist or another doctor.
Treatment
- Canalith repositioning manoeuvres (such as the Epley manoeuvre) for BPPV
- Gaze stabilisation exercises
- Habituation exercises to reduce sensitivity to movement
- Progressive balance and walking training
- Strength training, home safety advice and fall prevention for older adults
When dizziness needs urgent care
Go to an emergency department immediately if dizziness comes with sudden weakness, numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, double vision, a severe headache or chest pain. These can be signs of stroke or a heart problem.
Vestibular & Balance Rehabilitation: frequently asked questions
Can physiotherapy cure vertigo?
Many causes of vertigo respond very well. BPPV, the most common cause, is often greatly improved with one to three repositioning treatments. Other vestibular problems improve with a structured exercise programme over several weeks.
Will the exercises make me dizzy?
Some exercises bring on mild, short-lived dizziness on purpose, because that is how the brain adapts. We start at a level you can tolerate and progress gradually.
Is balance training useful for elderly parents?
Yes. Balance and strength training is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls in older adults, and we can also check the home for hazards.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
No, you can book directly. If anything in the assessment needs a doctor's review, our neurologist is part of the team.