The Vestibular and Balance Rehabilitation Program treats patients experiencing symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness, balance disorders, visual motor disturbances and falls. The goal of of thisprogram is to help patients improve their function and prevent falls.
An evaluation - which involves the assessment of pertinent vestibular and neuromuscular system functions, including strength, range of motion, coordination and balance, head and eye movements, mobility and risk for falls – is done. A physical therapy treatment plan of care is developed, addressing areas of concern uncovered during the evaluation. An individualized home exercise program is established to decrease dizziness symptoms and musculoskeletal or neuromuscular problems that affect balance. Balance rehabilitation may also include gait training with an assistive device, patient education with regards to safe home mobility and therapeutic exercises and activities.
A prescription from a physician is required to initiate physical therapy and, depending on your insurance, a referral may also be necessary.
Some of the causes of vertigo and imbalance are:
• Viral or bacterial infections
• Trauma – brain injury and post-concussion syndrome
• Stroke and other neurologic conditions
• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
• Meniere's disease
• Neuromas
• Ototoxicity
• Labyrinthitis
• Vascular ischemia
Contact Saint Peter’s Sports Medicine Institute at (732) 565-5455 with any questions or if you are interested in scheduling an appointment for vestibular and balance rehabilitation services.