Vestibular Rehabilitation in Erin Mills – Mississauga – Individuals with vestibular disorders often experience vertigo, dizziness, imbalance, or visual disturbances, which can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise-based program specifically designed to reduce dizziness and vertigo, improve gaze stability, enhance balance, and prevent falls.
The most common symptoms treated in vestibular physiotherapy are dizziness and vertigo. Dizziness refers to sensations such as lightheadedness, swaying, or disorientation, while vertigo is a type of dizziness defined by the illusion that the environment is moving.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Assessment and Screening
Proper vestibular rehabilitation requires thorough assessment using recommended tests, including:
- Detailed patient history
- Rapid Head Thrust Test
- Dix-Hallpike Test
Studies show that only about 11% of providers routinely use the Dix-Hallpike test in standard clinic settings, which can lead to underdiagnosis or mismanagement of vestibular impairments.
At Curezone Physiotherapy in Erin Mills – Mississauga, our licensed physiotherapists provide comprehensive vestibular assessments and individualized treatment plans. Alternative testing and treatment approaches are available for patients with conditions like vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI), restricted back mobility, or hip issues when standard testing is contraindicated.
Causes of Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness and vertigo may arise from multiple causes, including:
- Cardiovascular issues
- Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Visual system impairments
- Vestibular system disorders
- Head trauma, including concussions and whiplash
- Neuritis or labyrinthitis
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Meniere’s Disease
- Degeneration of the vestibular system
Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s Disease occurs due to abnormal absorption of endolymph in the inner ear, causing fluid pressure fluctuations. Symptoms may include:
- Ear fullness
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Fluctuating hearing loss
- Vertigo and imbalance lasting from hours to several days
Dietary adjustments such as reducing salt, alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine intake may help minimize dizzy spells, though vestibular rehabilitation remains most effective when vestibular function is preserved.
Types of Vestibular Rehabilitation
BPPV Treatment Techniques:
- Epley Maneuver
- Gans Maneuver
- Barbecue Roll
- Gufoni’s Maneuver
The goal of vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is to safely expose patients to movements that trigger vertigo or dizziness. Repeated exposure helps the brain adapt, compensating for vestibular deficits more quickly.
Other vestibular rehabilitation exercises include:
- Vestibular Adaptation Exercises
- Substitution Exercises
- Static and Dynamic Postural Stability Training
- Walking Exercises to Improve Dynamic Balance
Our physiotherapists create individualized programs based on diagnosis and prognosis. Patients are also provided with home exercise programs to reinforce therapy between sessions.
Why Choose Vestibular Rehabilitation at Curezone Physiotherapy in Erin Mills – Mississauga
Our clinic in Erin Mills – Mississauga provides:
- Comprehensive vestibular assessments
- Tailored exercise programs to reduce dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance
- Guidance on home exercise programs to maintain stability
- Evidence-based, safe, and effective treatment techniques for patients of all ages
Whether your symptoms are caused by BPPV, Meniere’s Disease, vestibular degeneration, or head trauma, our team delivers professional care designed to restore balance, confidence, and daily mobility.
Schedule Your Consultation
To learn more about our vestibular physiotherapy program in Erin Mills – Mississauga, including assessment, treatment plans, and home exercise guidance, schedule a phone or in-person consultation with our licensed physiotherapist today.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Vestibular Physiotherapy in Erin Mills
What is vestibular rehabilitation therapy?
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is an exercise-based program designed to reduce symptoms of dizziness and vertigo, improve balance, enhance gaze stability, and prevent falls. At Curezone Physiotherapy in Erin Mills – Mississauga, our licensed physiotherapists create individualized treatment plans that include specific exercises to help your brain compensate for vestibular dysfunction and restore your quality of life.
What conditions can vestibular physiotherapy treat?
Vestibular physiotherapy effectively treats a range of conditions including Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's Disease, vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, post-concussion syndrome, whiplash-related dizziness, and balance disorders caused by vestibular system degeneration. Our physiotherapists conduct comprehensive assessments to identify the underlying cause and develop targeted treatment strategies.
How long does vestibular rehabilitation take to work?
The duration of treatment varies depending on your specific condition and severity of symptoms. Many patients with BPPV experience significant improvement after just one or two sessions using maneuvers like the Epley technique. For other vestibular disorders, you may need several weeks of consistent therapy and home exercises. Your physiotherapist will provide a personalized timeline based on your assessment and progress.
What happens during a vestibular physiotherapy assessment?
During your initial assessment at our Erin Mills – Mississauga clinic, your physiotherapist will review your medical history, perform specialized tests such as the Rapid Head Thrust Test and Dix-Hallpike Test, and evaluate your balance and gaze stability. These comprehensive screening methods help accurately diagnose your vestibular impairment and determine the most effective treatment approach for your specific needs.
Will vestibular exercises make my dizziness worse?
It's common to experience mild dizziness during vestibular exercises, as the therapy works by exposing you to movements that trigger symptoms. This controlled exposure helps your brain adapt and compensate more quickly over time. Your physiotherapist will carefully monitor your response and adjust exercises accordingly to ensure safe, effective treatment that gradually reduces your symptoms.
Can I do vestibular rehabilitation exercises at home?
Yes, home exercises are an essential component of successful vestibular rehabilitation. After your assessment and initial treatment sessions, your physiotherapist at Curezone Physiotherapy will provide you with a customized home exercise program. Consistent practice between clinic visits helps reinforce therapy and accelerates your recovery, though it's important to follow the specific instructions provided by your therapist.
Is vestibular rehabilitation covered by insurance?
Most extended health insurance plans in Canada cover physiotherapy services, including vestibular rehabilitation. Coverage varies by provider and individual plan, so we recommend checking with your insurance company regarding your specific benefits. Our team at Curezone Physiotherapy in Erin Mills – Mississauga can provide you with the necessary documentation and receipts for insurance claims.
- Clinic Hours: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
- (905) 997-4333
- info@curezonephysiotherapy.com