What is the vestibular system?

The vestibular system is one of three sensory systems that helps you with balance. It has three main jobs: gaze stability, motion perception and postural stability (or balance). However, sometimes certain disorders can affect the vestibular system.

At MercyOne, we offer physical therapy as a conservative and highly effective option in treating many vestibular disorders.

Common vestibular disorders we treat include:

BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
Vestibular neuritis
Labyrinthitis

How do you know if you have a vestibular disorder?

You’ll likely experience some of the following symptoms if you have a vestibular disorder.

Primary vestibular symptoms:
Dizziness
Nausea
Vertigo
Nystagmus
Illusion of self-movement
Imbalance
Oscillopsia (the illusion that visual surroundings are moving)
Blurry vision

Secondary vestibular symptoms:

Headache, neck pain, stiffness
Motion sickness
Difficulty concentrating
Fatigue
Anxiety
Depression

How do you treat vestibular disorders?

MercyOne Physical Therapy treats vestibular disorders in a variety of ways. Treatments may consist of:

Positional maneuvers
Habituation training
Gaze stabilization
Balance training

Vestibular Rehabilitation is an effective form of treatment for inner ear disorders that involves symptoms-specific exercises designed to eliminate dizzness and improve balance. Several visits with a licensed physical therapist who is trained in vestibular treatment will help reduce symptoms, improve function and better quality of life.