Vestibular Therapy
What is Vestibular Therapy?
Vestibular rehabilitation, often referred to as vestibular therapy, is a form of physiotherapy designed to help individuals who struggle with dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems. This therapy works by retraining the brain and body to adapt to changes or damage in the inner ear and balance system, with a key focus on assessing and improving vestibular function to support recovery. Vestibular therapy also works by enhancing the neural connections between the inner ear, brain, and body, which are essential for processing balance information and restoring stability.
Through customized exercises, patients can improve stability, reduce motion sensitivity, and regain confidence in their daily activities. At Strive Health and Performance, we provide vestibular therapy in Coquitlam to help patients restore balance and improve their quality of life with evidence-based treatment programs tailored to each person’s needs. Therapy also involves identifying and addressing contributing factors that may affect dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems.
What is the Vestibular System?
The vestibular system is a vital part of the inner ear that communicates with the brain to control balance, spatial orientation, and coordination, and can involve dysfunction in one or both ears, which can impact the severity of balance problems.
It works closely with the eyes, muscles, and joints, with both the vestibular part of the inner ear and the visual system playing crucial roles in maintaining balance and spatial orientation.
When the vestibular system is not functioning properly, it can lead to dizziness, unsteadiness, or disorientation. By addressing these issues through vestibular therapy at Strive Health and Performance, patients in Coquitlam can retrain their body to regain proper function and reduce the disruptive effects of vestibular disorders.
Conditions Treated by Vestibular Therapy
Vestibular therapy can address a wide range of issues, including inner ear problems, ear problems, neck problems, medical conditions, and visual issues that contribute to dizziness and imbalance.
- Vertigo
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Labyrinthitis
- Vestibular neuritis
- Meniere’s disease
- Concussion-related dizziness
- Migraine-associated vertigo
- Chronic dizziness or imbalance
- Age-related balance decline
- Post-stroke balance issues
Who Can Benefit from Vestibular Therapy?
Vestibular therapy in Coquitlam is beneficial for anyone experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance caused by inner ear disorders, neurological conditions, or concussions. Vestibular therapy can also help those experiencing secondary symptoms such as fatigue and pain due to their condition. It is especially helpful for older adults who may be at higher risk of falls and individuals who have been living with persistent dizziness that has not resolved on its own. At Strive Health and Performance, our physiotherapists work with patients of all ages to create individualized programs that reduce symptoms, improve safety, and restore confidence in performing everyday activities, including self-care abilities, and an occupational therapist may be involved in the rehabilitation process.
Offered at the Following Locations
What Should I Expect During My First Visit?
During your first visit for vestibular therapy at Strive Health and Performance, your physiotherapist will begin with a comprehensive assessment that includes a detailed medical history, a review of your symptoms, and different tests to evaluate your vestibular, visual, and musculoskeletal function, as well as physical tests to measure balance, eye movement, and coordination. The assessment will also consider various factors that may contribute to your dizziness or imbalance. Based on this information, your physiotherapist will develop a personalized treatment plan that targets your specific condition and goals, which may include specific movements designed to help your brain adapt and reduce symptoms that trigger dizziness. This plan may include gaze stabilization exercises, balance training, and functional movements designed to improve stability in real-life situations. You will also receive education on your condition and practical home exercises to accelerate your recovery.
Book Vestibular Therapy at Strive Health and Performance today!
FAQs
How long does vestibular therapy take to see results?
The timeline varies depending on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying condition. Some patients notice improvements in as little as a few sessions, while others may require several weeks of therapy. At Strive Health and Performance, your therapist will regularly reassess your progress and adjust your program to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Is vestibular therapy safe for older adults?
Yes, vestibular therapy is safe and highly beneficial for older adults who may experience dizziness, unsteadiness, or an increased risk of falls. At our Coquitlam clinic, we carefully tailor therapy to each patient’s comfort level and physical ability, making it an effective option for seniors looking to restore confidence and independence.
What should I wear to my vestibular therapy session at Strive Health and Performance?
It’s best to wear comfortable clothing and supportive footwear that allows you to move freely during your assessment and exercises. Since many vestibular exercises involve head, neck, and full-body movements, clothing that does not restrict mobility will help you get the most out of your therapy sessions.
Will my vestibular therapy be customized to my needs?
Absolutely. Every vestibular rehabilitation program at Strive Health and Performance is personalized based on your medical history, current symptoms, and personal goals. Whether you’re recovering from a concussion, dealing with vertigo, or managing chronic dizziness, your therapist will design a plan that directly addresses your challenges and adapts as you progress.
Do I need a doctor’s referral for vestibular therapy in Coquitlam?
No you do not need a referral to begin vestibular therapy at Strive
Health and Performance.
