Physical Therapy for Vestibular Conditions

Your vestibular system includes the parts of the brain and inner ear that help control both eye movements and balance. In a recent epidemiological study, it was found that approximately 69 million Americans have experienced a form of vestibular dysfunction. Essentially, your vestibular system is a central part of your functioning abilities. When damage or disease is infiltrating these areas, not only do you feel the effect it has on your body, but you will also experience difficulties when it comes to performing day-to-day tasks. If you or someone you know is suffering from a vestibular disorder, know there is a way you can ease your symptoms. With the help of physical therapy in Huntington, you can learn how to treat many of the negative symptoms yourself through exercise. 

Common Symptoms: 

The symptoms of vestibular disorders can be broken down depending on the type and severity of them. When visiting physical therapy in Huntington, make sure you fully describe the symptoms you are experiencing so they can help properly diagnose your disorder: 

• Vertigo – If you are suffering from vertigo you likely feel dizzy, or that the world around you is spinning. You may also feel lightheaded or a rocking sensation while sitting still or with certain movements.
• Balance and Spatial Orientation – You often feel an imbalance, have difficulty walking straight or even stumble frequently. You also may struggle with coordination or tend to hold onto something while standing. 
• Vision Issues – If your experience symptoms involving your vision, you may feel discomfort in busy visual environments, have a sensitivity to light, poor depth perception, and have trouble focusing or tracking objects. 
• Hearing Issues –  You may hear a ringing, roaring, or buzzing in your ear. It is also likely that you have a sensitivity to loud noises or environments. 

If you suffer from any of the following symptoms, a physical therapist at Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington can then devise a personalized treatment plan based on your needs. 

How can physical therapy in Huntington help?

Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of therapy that will target both primary and secondary problems caused by vestibular disorders. Your physical therapist will create an exercise program that can incorporate the following:

• Visual cues 
• Somatosensory cues 
• Stationary positions 
• Dynamic movements
• Coordinated movements 
  • Ones that target the ankles, hips, or both
• Dual tasks 
  • Ones that involve balancing at the same time

At Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington, we offer a variety of services, including vestibular therapy, to help patients manage pain and reduce the many symptoms that come along with vestibular disorders. To learn more about our services, or how you can get a personalized treatment program just for you, contact us today!