Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is an exercise-based program for reducing the symptoms of disequilibrium and dizziness associated with vestibular (inner-ear) pathology. A common neuro-otological approach for managing symptoms is to prescribe medication that suppresses vestibular function. However, in the long term, such suppressants can interfere with a person's ability to make necessary adaptations. In addition, many of these medications cause drowsiness that may limit a person's ability to be active.
VRT is an alternative treatment involving exercises that can eliminate or significantly reduce symptoms by promoting central nervous system compensation for inner-ear deficits. The program is designed to achieve these goals:
- Decrease dizziness and visual symptoms.
- Increase balance and walking functions.
- Increase general activity levels.
The program may include exercises for:
- Coordinating head and eye movements.
- Stimulating the symptoms of dizziness in order to desensitize the vestibular system.
- Improving balance and walking ability.
- Improving fitness and endurance.
Exercises vary depending on the type of inner-ear disorder and the associated symptoms.
Does therapy succeed?
The best available clinical evidence shows VRT exercises to be effective in reducing symptoms of many types of surgical procedures for vestibular disorders. Treatment of BPPV using canalith-repositioning maneuvers (a series of head maneuvers that move displaced calcium carbonate crystals out of one of the semicircular canals of the inner ear) is, however, more effective than medication or other forms of exercise-based therapy.
