If you are experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or are having balance issues, you may be suffering from vestibular dysfunction. The vestibular system is part of the inner ear and controls your sense of balance and spatial orientation. Vestibular issues can cause a variety of symptoms that may have harmed your quality of life. If you are seeking Vestibular Therapy in New York City, H&D Physical Therapy is here for you!

Recognizing the Symptoms

The vestibular system is located in the inner ear and is essential for our sense of balance. When this system is damaged, a vestibular disorder can arise. Vestibular issues can occur in people of all ages. However, it is most commonly seen in older adults. Symptoms include:

  • Dizziness
  • Vertigo
  • Feeling off balance
  • Blurred vision
  • Falling or stumbling 

Although less common, other secondary symptoms may include:

Vestibular Therapy in New York City
  • Nausea/Vomiting
  • Tinnitus
  • Hearing loss
  • Cognitive impairment 
  • Fear and anxiety

Dealing with vestibular issues can be both frightening and debilitating. Vestibular Therapy in New York City is an option available for people seeking treatment. 

How Do Vestibular Issues Arise?

Knowing what causes vestibular problems can help prevent damaging side effects. Research shows that approximately 69 million Americans have experienced some form of vestibular dysfunction. These issues are caused by a variety of factors. 

  • Medications- Ototoxicity refers to inner ear problems as a result of medication. Taking high doses or long-term uses of certain antibiotics can cause damage to the inner ear.
  • Viral infections- Examples of common viral infections that can cause vestibular problems are measles, influenza, mononucleosis, rubella, mumps, polio, shingles, chickenpox, and hepatitis.
  • Inner ear problems- Damage to nerves that send signals to the brain from the ear can cause vestibular problems and head to hear loss. 
  • Traumatic brain injury- Trauma to the head or neck caused by a concussion can lead to vestibular problems.
  • Whiplash- Forceful, rapid movement of the neck can cause nerve injury.
  • Injury to the ear- Sudden barometric pressure changes can trigger vestibular issues. 
  • Migraines or Stroke- Stroke or chronic migraines that occur in the cerebellum or brainstem where balance is controlled.
  • Aging- Aging naturally affects all sensory systems in the body. As we age, the number of sensory hair cells in the ear decreases.

Vestibular balance disorders can be diagnosed by performing several physical examinations :

  • Hearing exam
  • Vision exam
  • Blood tests
  • MRI of the brain
  • Clinical tests of balance

Treatment Options

If you are dealing with vestibular issues, Vestibular Therapy in New York City can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence. Vestibular therapy treatment options allow patients to meet with trained professionals who are educated on vestibular disorders and are there to guide their rehabilitation. Some examples of treatment plans are:

  • Exercises to reduce effects of motion sensitivity
  • Visual motion exercises to improve dizziness and movement-related blurred vision
  • Balance exercises to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls
  • Treatment of any underlying causes
  • Create changes in lifestyle
  • Medication
  • Surgery

With physical therapy, exercises can help reduce and treat symptoms of dizziness and imbalance. It is also important to teach condition-specific education that will provide each patient tools for effective treatment with lasting results.

Vestibular Therapy in New York City

H&D Physical Therapy is NYC’s leading physical therapy clinic since 1997. Here, we offer a variety of services, including Vestibular Therapy, to help each patient with their concerns. We believe in treating people, not their body parts. If you are currently suffering from vestibular dysfunction-related symptoms, do not hesitate to seek help. Call today or visit our website to schedule an appointment to meet with one of our therapists and begin your rehabilitation journey!