Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to treat inner ear and balance-related conditions. It uses targeted exercises to address symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and coordination problems.

Conditions VRT treats include:

• Dizziness and vertigo

• Balance and posture issues

• Vision disturbances

• Nausea, fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• Gait and mobility problems

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is effective for individuals experiencing dizziness, imbalance, or vertigo caused by various conditions. It helps manage symptoms and improve balance.

Symptoms treated by VRT:

• Dizziness

• Blurry vision with head movements

• Imbalance

• Frequent falls

• Feeling unsteady when walking

Conditions that benefit from VRT:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

• Vestibular Neuritis

• Labyrinthitis

• Migraine headaches with vestibular symptoms

• Post-concussion syndrome

• Stroke

• Traumatic brain injury

Vestibular rehabilitation should begin after a confirmed diagnosis of a vestibular disorder and when symptoms are stable. 

Key Points to Consider are as follows:

• Medical Evaluation: Consult a doctor to rule out other causes of dizziness before starting VRT.

• Stable Condition: Begin therapy once symptoms are stable and not worsening.

• Specialist Assessment: A physical therapist with vestibular expertise should evaluate your symptoms and balance to determine if VRT is appropriate.

Typically, a physical therapist with expertise in vestibular rehabilitation treatment (VRT) will meet with patients at a clinic. These are the main aspects:

• Sessions are conducted in a physical therapy clinic with a trained specialist.

• Specialized equipment is used to track progress.

• Exercises focus on improving balance and reducing dizziness.

• A home exercise program is included for patients to perform between visits.

This is how VRT works:

• Personalized exercise program: A specialist, such as a physiotherapist, customizes the program based on individual needs.

• Re-educates the balance system: Exercises retrain the body’s balance mechanisms to improve stability.

• Techniques used: include eye and head movements, standing balance exercises, and maneuvers to reposition inner ear crystals.

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy costs $100–$250 per session, averaging $100–$200. Insurance often covers it under physical therapy, reducing expenses. Costs depend on location, therapist expertise, and insurance coverage. Initial evaluations may be pricier than follow-ups.

Key Points:

• Check insurance for coverage.

• Costs vary by location and specialist.

• Initial evaluation may cost more.

At Fyzical Therapy & Balance Center Coral Springs we accept most insurance plans (we can check your coverage for you), have a reasonable self-pay rate, and offer care credit.

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) involves exercises aimed at improving balance and reducing dizziness by retraining the brain to process inner ear signals more effectively. 

Key Components of VRT:

• Gaze stabilization: Eye movement exercises to improve focus during head motion.

• Habituation: Repeated exposure to dizziness triggers to reduce sensitivity.

• Balance retraining: Activities on various surfaces to enhance stability.

• Patient education: Learning to manage dizziness and cope with triggers.

Yes, vestibular therapy is effective in managing many vestibular conditions. It can improve balance, coordination, vision stability, and reduce dizziness by retraining the brain to process sensory signals more effectively.

How VRT Works:

• Stimulates the vestibular system in the inner ear to enhance brain processing.

• Trains the brain to rely on alternative signals (eyes, neck, legs) for balance.

• Retrains the brain to interpret sensory information accurately.

Some individuals may not benefit significantly from vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) due to the nature or severity of their condition. Key points about who may not benefit are listed below:

• Frequent, unpredictable vertigo attacks

• Unstable vestibular conditions

• Severe cognitive impairments

• Psychological barriers: Fear of dizziness or low motivation can reduce effectiveness.

Note: Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

The following are triggers that can worsen vestibular symptoms:

• Sudden head movements, like turning quickly.

• Visual stimuli in busy or complex environments.

• Dietary triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, or salty foods.

• Stress, sleep deprivation, or medications with dizziness as a side effect.

• Illness or hormonal changes that disrupt balance signals.

The best vestibular exercise is gaze stabilization. Other exercises include:

• Head movements with targets: Turning your head while focusing on a stationary point.

• Standing balance exercises: Maintaining balance in various stances.

• Walking with head turns: Turning your head side to side while walking.

• Marching in place with head turns: Marching while turning your head to challenge balance and coordination.