Who would benefit from vestibular and balance therapy?
Individuals with:
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Post-concussive syndrome
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Post-traumatic brain injury
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Sensory integration deficit
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Severe disequilibrium
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History of falls due to vertigo or dizziness
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Vertigo or dizziness not responsive to usual forms of medical management
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Significant balance dysfunction in conjunction with normal inner ear testing
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Gait or balance disorders insufficiently explained by neurological evaluation
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Post-aminoglyoside therapy or postoperative inner ear surgery
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Identification of symptom magnification
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Eye strain and fatigue from daily tasks
What does the program include?
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
Various evaluation procedures are performed to not only identify the cause of the patient’s dizziness or imbalance but to help direct a very specific and individualized plan of treatment based on rehabilitation potential and the patient’s specific goals. The evaluation may include visual and vestibular testing, general therapy testing using valid and reliable test batteries. The Neuro Center also may utilize the SMART Balance System for Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP) testing. CDP is an objective method for isolating and quantifying impairments related to somatosensory, vestibular and visual inputs, automatic and voluntary responses and central adaptive mechanisms of balance.
2. Individualized Therapy
An individualized therapy program is implemented to help the patient eliminate, adapt or compensate for problems caused by inner ear dysfunctions of a central or peripheral nature or balance problems that can be improved through therapy. Length of treatment may vary based upon needs but will range from one to two times per week for two weeks to approximately four to eight weeks.
3. Falls Prevention
A falls prevention program may be indicated for those who demonstrate a high risk for falls but do not have a true vestibular problem. Individuals who may benefit from a falls prevention program may include those with:
4. Functional Visual Motor and Perceptual Rehabilitation
Vision is not just “sight” but perception and coordinated eye movements. Vision is our most dominant sense and the brain will listen to the eyes before any of the other senses. If the visual system is compromised or inefficient, it can cause symptoms like
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dizziness
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eye strain
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eye fatigue
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blurred vision
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double images
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headaches
Tasks such as reading, computer work, home tasks and driving can be very difficult or impossible.An occupational therapist, in collaboration with a neuro ophthalmologist, can improve a patient’s visual function.Treatment can include:
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Eye range of motion activities
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Focusing and accommodation tasks
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Use of prisms
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Eye coordination activities
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Visual perceptual activities
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Education and instruction on proper eye health
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Ergonomic instruction to avoid strain, fatigue and headaches often caused by reading and
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computer use
We have a specially trained staff of physical and occupational therapists that provide comprehensive evaluation and individualized intervention. In addition, for more complex patients, the Neuro Center has a highly qualified clinical consultant on staff who holds a clinical specialty certification and advanced degree in the area of neurology and, more specifically, vestibular rehabilitation. Our team works collaboratively with ENT, neurology, neuro ophthalmology and audiology consultants to assist the referring physician in the event additional diagnostic services or intervention would be of benefit.