What Is Vestibular Therapy For Concussion

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A concussion is a type of brain injury, resulting from a forceful impact to the head or neck. The sudden jolt to the brain can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, balance issues, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound.

While rest is one of the mainstay treatments for recovery from a concussion, vestibular therapy can also be a helpful treatment option for those who experience persistent symptoms after a concussion. At Revive Spine and Sport Physiotherapy Clinic, our Edmonton physiotherapy team is trained in vestibular therapy for concussion treatment. Keep reading to learn more. 

Understanding The Vestibular System And Its Role In Concussion

The vestibular system is a complex network in the inner ear that controls balance. It includes the vestibular organs, the vestibular nerve, and the brain. In essence, the vestibular organs detect movement and spatial orientation, and then send the information about the body’s position and movement in space to the brain via the nerves. Together, this system keeps the body upright and oriented. 

When a concussion occurs, it can cause disruptions in the vestibular system. As a result, this can lead to a range of symptoms, including dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems. Vestibular rehabilitation is a type of therapy that aims to improve the function of the vestibular system. It can help reduce symptoms of dizziness and improve balance, as well as reduce the risk of falls.

Symptoms Of Concussion That Can Be Treated With Vestibular Therapy

Vestibular therapy is a type of physiotherapy that focuses on the vestibular system. It can be an effective treatment option for a range of concussion symptoms. Common symptoms that can be addressed with vestibular therapy include dizziness, balance issues, and vertigo. Vestibular therapy can also help reduce sensitivity to motion, which can be particularly helpful for individuals who experience symptoms while moving.

Treating Concussion Symptoms With Vestibular Therapy 

Vestibular therapy can offer several benefits for those recovering from a concussion. It can help improve the brain’s ability to adapt and recover from the injury, reducing the duration and severity of symptoms. Vestibular therapy can also improve overall balance and stability, which can help patients return back to normal life.

There are several types of vestibular therapy exercises that a physiotherapist may recommend for concussion patients. These include gaze stabilization exercises to improve visual tracking, balance exercises to improve stability, and habituation exercises to reduce dizziness symptoms. In some cases, the concussion symptoms may coincide with a condition called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Canalith repositioning manoeuvres may also be used to treat this. These treatments can help improve the brain’s ability to adapt and recover from a concussion. 

Examples Of Vestibular Exercises

  • Gaze stabilization exercises: Gaze stabilization exercises involve focusing on a stationary object while moving the head. This can help improve visual tracking and reduce symptoms of dizziness and nausea.
  • Balance exercises: Balance exercises are specifically designed to challenge and improve the balance systems in the body. The exercises can be tailored to the specific needs of each individual and may include standing on one leg, walking along a straight line, or performing specific movements to improve overall stability. 
  • Habituation exercises: Habituation exercises are designed to help the brain to adapt to specific movements or triggers. The exercises involve exposing the patient to certain movements or environments that trigger symptoms. This can help the brain adapt and reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, reducing overall dizziness. 
  • Repositioning maneuvers: Canalith repositioning maneuvers are specifically used to treat BPPV. The maneuver is completed by a trained physical therapist and involves moving the head and body in specific ways. This can have an immediate effect on symptoms, but may also take time to work. 

Precautions Of Vestibular Exercises

There are several factors to be aware of when completing vestibular therapy under the guidance of a physical therapist: 

  • Always follow the instructions of the physical therapist, including the dose, form and technique, and warning signs to look out for when completing the exercises.
  • It’s important not to overdo the exercises as this may increase the risk of worsening or exacerbating existing symptoms.
  • Not all patients will be suitable for vestibular therapy. The physical therapist will ensure the right exercises are prescribed to the right patient. 

Reap The Benefits Of Vestibular Rehab 

Vestibular therapy is an effective treatment option for those suffering from persistent concussion symptoms. By addressing the underlying contributing factors to symptoms such as dizziness, balance, and hypersensitivity, this form of therapy can help patients recover and get back to normal life. 

Work with a trained health professional to experience the benefits of vestibular therapy in Edmonton, AB. For those looking for concussion treatment in Edmonton, look no further than Revive Spine and Sport Physiotherapy Clinic. Contact us today!

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