Adult rehabilitation · Treatment guide
Balance and Vertigo Rehabilitation
Balance and vertigo rehabilitation: assessment of dizziness, selection of appropriate exercises, reduction of falls risk and the follow-up process.
Updated: · General information
Balance and Vertigo Rehabilitation: what approach is taken?
Vertigo is the sensation that either oneself or one’s surroundings are spinning. Before rehabilitation, the cause must be identified and the necessary ENT or neurological assessment carried out.
Areas of assessment and treatment
- Assessment of balance and falls risk
- Gaze stabilisation and balance exercises in suitable patients
- Support from Korebalance and Biometrics E-link systems
- Emergency assessment for new speech disturbance, double vision or weakness
Why does the type of dizziness matter?
A sensation of spinning, light-headedness and feeling faint are not the same complaint. The duration of the attack, its relationship to head movement, any change in hearing and the medication being taken are all enquired about. Because not every episode of dizziness arises from the inner ear, an appropriate diagnostic assessment comes first; where necessary, an ENT or neurological opinion is obtained.
How does a vestibular programme progress?
Gaze stabilisation, adaptation to head movement and balance work on different surfaces may be selected in suitable patients. Certain types of positional vertigo, however, require different manoeuvres. The dose of home practice and the sensations it is expected to produce are explained. Follow-up assesses fear of falling, confidence in walking and change in everyday movement.
What is assessed at the first consultation?
Your medical history, your current symptoms, the medicines you take and your needs in daily life are all discussed. You may share any previous investigations you have. Suitable options are considered together after the physician’s assessment.
Your questions
Patient information
Can I perform the vertigo manoeuvre I found online?
The choice of manoeuvre depends on the type of vertigo and the structure affected. Repeating one without examination is not appropriate; problems of the neck and blood vessels must also be taken into account.
Does every case of dizziness resolve with exercise?
No. Depending on the cause, medication, assessment by another specialty or a different approach may be needed. In the event of new speech disturbance, double vision or weakness, emergency services must be called.
