Vestibular Physical Therapy

There’s a high likelihood that you or someone you know has experienced vertigo, imbalance, or a concussion. Often, it is far more debilitating than musculoskeletal complaints because it limits your ability to walk, drive, work, or care for your family.

The good news is that vertigo, imbalance & concussion often respond to physical therapy very quickly!

What is vestibular rehabilitation therapy, or VRT?

Just like you strength train for weak muscles, you can do physical therapy exercises to address vertigo, imbalance, headaches, or post-concussion. You have an apparatus in your inner ear that tells your body where it is in space and controls your equilibrium, it is known as your vestibular system.  It allows you to turn your head and keep your vision focused, balance on one leg, drive in traffic, walk through a crowded grocery store, and stay active. This, in conjunction with your vision and joint receptors help keep you upright and balanced.

 
Carli Kavanagh working with a balance patient in physical therapy in Seattle

Conditions we treat:

  • Migraines

  • Headaches

  • Dizziness

  • Imbalance

  • Neck pain

  • Concussion

  • Vertigo

  • Visual or spatial difficulties

  • Hypofunction (weakness of your vestibular system)

Regarding concussions, there are varying severities and you don’t have to be knocked unconscious to have a concussion. While persistent headaches, difficulty concentrating, slowed thinking, or blurry vision are common after a hit to the head, it is NOT normal and you should seek treatment. Physical therapy is very successful at helping you get back to normal.

physical therapist Carli Kavanagh working on a patient with vestibular issues

In your initial evaluation, we are first going to discuss exactly what you are feeling. Answers to these questions and our exam will help us determine what is causing your symptoms so we can begin appropriate treatment. From there, you will be given exercises and tips at home to start improving your symptoms on the first day.

Will I get dizzy, nauseous, or other symptoms during my session?

The answer is likely yes, but for good reason. When we strength train, we want to feel some fatigue and soreness in our muscles. The dizziness or symptom provocation you get during your treatment session is the equivalent to muscle fatigue. It indicates that we are addressing the correct area to improve your symptoms. However, we closely monitor these symptoms to make sure we are working at the appropriate level of challenge. The initial evaluation tends to flare symptoms up more because we need to understand why and what you are feeling. If you would like to discuss this with us further prior to your initial evaluation, please contact us. 

*Important Note: If you are taking meclizine or other antivert medication, please refrain from doing so 24 hours before your appointment.

Please feel free to contact our vestibular specialist, Carli Kavanagh with questions about the treatment or to see if this type of PT is right for you!! carli@arrowptseattle.com