Vestibular/Balance Disorders Rehabilitation

Physiatry for Balance Conditions

A physiatrist can help patients who experience vestibular / balance disorders. The vestibular system processes sensory information. Parts that make up the vestibular system include the inner ear and the brain. Together, these body parts help a patient manage his / her balance and the movements of his / her eyes. Vestibular conditions can affect an individual’s balance.

What causes vestibular disorders? In some cases, a serious injury or a disease of some type can affect the parts of the body that process sensory information, resulting in balance disorders. Certain genetic or environmental factors can also cause vestibular disorders—or make an existing disorder worse. Allergies, aging, and autoimmune disorders can contribute to vestibular disorders. In some cases, the exact cause is unknown.

Types of Vestibular Disorders

Examples of some common types of vestibular disorders include:

• Labyrinthitis / vestibular neuritis
• Mal de Debarquement
• Meniere’s disease
• Acoustic neuroma / vestibular schwannoma
• Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED)
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
• Cervicogenic dizziness
• Cerebellar ataxia, neuropathy, and vestibular areflexia (CANVAS syndrome)
• Secondary endolymphatic hydrops
• Perilymph fistula
• Tinnitus
• Ototoxicity

A physiatrist can help develop a treatment plan designed to minimize symptoms. Numerous specialists can assist you with a vestibular disorder. Speak with your doctor at Washington Township Medical Foundation so we can begin developing the right treatment plan for you.