Vestibular Rehabilitation | VRT
Vestibular rehabilitation therapists at MaineHealth evaluate and treat problems with balance and dizziness, also called vestibular disorders. People who have trouble standing or moving without losing their balance are able to build strength and flexibility. They gain confidence and have more independence.
What is vestibular rehabilitation therapy?
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is evaluation, training and education for people with balance problems or vestibular disorders. A referral from your healthcare provider is needed. VRT first identifies what is causing the problem. Balance is affected by different body systems, including the inner ear, vision, and your musculoskeletal system. People who receive VRT often have:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Trouble with balance
- Meniere’s syndrome
- Neck-related dizziness
- Migraine headaches
How can VRT therapy help?
Patients receive an evaluation. With vestibular rehabilitation therapy, patients learn exercise they also can do at home. They also learn about behavior changes that can reduce symptoms of dizziness. Therapists also help patients deal with the fear and worry that comes with dizziness and fear of falling. The therapy helps to improve symptoms that include:
- Blurry vision
- Trouble keeping your balance
- Falling down a lot
- Vertigo / spinning