The human body is made up of different systems, all of which have a specific function. One such system is called the vestibular system. This is the system in the body that is responsible for the sense of balance and spatial orientation. The vestibular system is located inside the inner ear. When the body's vestibular system isn't working as it should, a type of treatment called vestibular balance rehabilitation can help.

To help you better understand this type of therapy, here are the answers to three frequently asked questions about vestibular balance rehabilitation.

1. What Disorders Get Treated with Vestibular Balance Rehabilitation Help?

According to recent statistics, about 69 million adults in the United States have a vestibular dysfunction. Treatment for these disorders often includes vestibular balance rehabilitation.

Here are some examples of vestibular disorders this type of therapy treats:

• Vestibular migraine. A type of migraine that affects the ears, eyes, and balance.
• Ménière's disease. A disorder of the inner ear.
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). An inner ear problem that causes a false sensation of spinning.
• Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD). A type of chronic dizziness that usually causes changes in behavioral patterns.

Along with these disorders, vestibular balance rehabilitation helps with age-related dizziness and balance issues, along with vestibular damage from a head injury. All of these conditions produce similar symptoms, which include dizziness, vertigo, blurred vision, disorientation, ear problems, and feeling off-balance.

2. Who Offers Vestibular Balance Rehabilitation?

People who have symptoms of a vestibular disorder should see their primary care physician. If the physician suspects a vestibular disorder, they will refer the patient to a physical therapist that specializes in vestibular balance rehabilitation.

Other types of therapists that may offer vestibular balance rehabilitation include occupational therapists, audiologists, and physical trainers. These types of therapists usually work in hospitals or rehabilitation clinics. Some vestibular balance rehabilitation specialists work independently.

3. How Effective Is Vestibular Balance Rehabilitation?

While vestibular balance rehabilitation may not be a cure for some people, this type of rehabilitation can be effective when it comes to managing the symptoms of various vestibular disorders. It's important to note that the number of sessions often depends on the severity of the symptoms.

Some people may see results in just a small number of sessions, while others will need much more therapy. Patients might have other factors that limit their recovery. Some of these factors include chronic pain, sedentary lifestyle, certain medications, mental health issues, and other medical issues.