Vestibular Balance Programs
The vestibular system, which has its central focus in areas of the ear, helps us maintain balance and our spatial orientation and works with the neural structures that control our eye movement.
As the main facilitator of movement and sense of balance, the vestibular system actually helps us to not only stay upright, but also to walk in a coordinated, intentional manner.
The purpose of vestibular balance rehabilitation at St. Vincent’s is to assist individuals who are dealing with difficulty in maintaining physical balance. Our highly skilled, licensed physical therapists draw on the assessment of the patient’s primary physician or specialist to thoroughly evaluate the patient’s balance and needs. They use the latest proven methods to improve upon the patient’s functioning and thus prevent falls.
A treatment plan that addresses the patient’s specific concerns is drawn up based on the pertinent vestibular and neuromuscular system functions. This includes evaluation of the patient’s strength, range of motion, coordination and balance, head/eye movements, mobility and risk for falls. A home exercise program may be recommended.
The individualized physical therapy treatment plan developed by your St. Vincent’s physical therapist will address the areas of concern found during the evaluation. This may include and the development of an individualized home exercise program to decrease dizziness symptoms and address musculoskeletal or neuromuscular problems affecting the individual’s balance.
Vestibular balance rehabilitation at St. Vincent’s may include gait training with an appropriate assistive device; education regarding safe home mobility; computerized platform posturography (posture exercises); and other therapeutic activities. A variety of central and peripheral neurologic and orthopedic diagnoses can contribute to dizziness and imbalance and may be effectively treated at St. Vincent’s through balance rehabilitation, as well.
Diagnosis that contribute to dizziness and imbalance:
- The effects of aging
- Inner ear disorders (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, ototoxicity, labyrinthitis)
- Brain injury
- Post-concussion syndrome
- Stroke
- Neurologic conditions
- Orthopedic injury/condition
Contact us
To find a St. Vincent’s physician who can discuss your health concerns or those of a loved one, please click on our FIND A DOCTOR tool and search by specialty, practice, location or keyword. We’re here to help you locate the medical expert you need.
To speak with a St. Vincent's Care Line representative, call (877) 255-7847
To speak with somone at the front desk of the Medical Center, please call (203) 576-6000
Click in for St. Vincent's Medical Center DIRECTIONS | MAPS | PARKING information