What is Vestibular Rehabilitation?
The vestibular system is the part of the inner ear and brain that is involved in processing information to control balance and eye movements. If this system is damaged, through disease or injury, vertigo or dizziness may result. As a result the the vertigo, you may also experience muscle tension, headaches, fatigue and anxiety.
Vestibular rehabilitation is a form of the physiotherapy that retrains the brain to process this informaiton. This is done through exercises and in some cases, manoeuvres to alleviate symptoms.
What can be treated?
We treat patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's Disease, cervicogenic vertigo, labryintitis, vertibular neuritis, poor balance due to aging and some diagnosed, stable central lesions.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can some straight to us. Lee Chambers runs our vestibular rehab programme so you just call and book an appointment to see her. Make sure that you specify that the appointment is for vertigo so that she can book sufficient time.
What will happen at the first appointment?
Lee will take a detailed history of your condition. This will be followed by a series of tests to diagnose what is causing your symptoms. Treatment will start at the first appoinment and the type of treatment will depend on the diagnosis. Occasionally, the tests carried out in the first appointment may cause a brief increase in symptoms. Because of this, we advise that you bring someone with you in case you do not feel well enough to drive home.
Do I need to bring anything with me for the first appointment?
If you have been referred by your G.P. or Consultant, please bring your referral letter.
How long will my appointment last?
The first appointment is an hour long and costs €100. Follow-up appointments are thirty minutes long and cost €50.
How many appointments will I need?
This will depend on the diagnosis. 75% of patients require 3 appointments or fewer.
Are there side effects to Vestibular Rehabilitation?
Sometimes the exercises may initially cause an increase in symptoms as the brain and the body adjust to the new movements. As you practise the exercises, your symptoms should decrease and your balance should improve. Any secondary symptoms such as muscle tension and headaches should also resolve.