Dizziness and Disequilibrium

Dizziness and disequilibrium are common complaints reported by many people at Brainstorm's Balance Clinic. Importantly dizziness is not a disease but rather a symptom resulting from disturbance of the vestibular system. This may impair the person’s ability to change positions (such as line down) or move about without the imbalance of vertigo. Even more moderate dizziness may be debilitating enough to diminish a person’s quality of life both physically and socially.

 A common neurological approach to managing dizziness is an exercise based program of therapy. The aim of vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is to reduce the symptoms of disequilibrium and dizziness associated with a vestibular disorder. This alternative treatment approach involves specific exercises that have been found to significantly reduce the symptoms by retraining the brain compensations. Significantly this program of therapy is designed to achieve:

• A decrease of dizziness and visual symptoms.
• An increase in balance and walking function. 
• An increase in general activity levels.

The prescription of exercises and therapy is dependent on the type of vestibular disorder however they may include: 

• Coordinating eye and head movements. 
• Balance and walking activities. 
• Desensitising activities by provoking the vestibular system-habituation exercises. 
• General fitness and endurance activities for the brain. 
  

Dizziness and disequilibrium has a significant impact on the health of the client and their caregiver. If you are aware of anyone who experience these symptoms contact Brainstorm for professional advice from our highly trained therapist.