Vestibular Rehabilitation

A large percentage of people over the age of 40 experience dizziness or balance problems as the result of an inner ear imbalance or hearing loss. Designed to help relieve the symptoms associated with inner ear disorders, Good Shepherd's outpatient Vestibular Rehabilitation Program addresses positional vertigo and imbalance through a number of proven rehabilitative techniques.

Program Approach
Upon entering the Vestibular Rehabilitation Program, patients go through an evaluation which includes questions regarding the nature of their “dizziness.” Neck motion is then checked, and a motion sensitivity test is used to rate dizziness intensity on a scale from zero to five while in a number of physical positions. Balance and walking ability are also evaluated.

If, after initial evaluation, a patient is seen as a candidate for further therapy, Good Shepherd may utilize the Epley Maneuver (also known as canal repositioning) for treatment. As part of the Epley Maneuver, the patient's head is quickly placed over the side of a table (while lying down), and a therapist utilizes various head and body positions in an attempt to move any debris which may be causing dizziness away from the ear canal.

After the Epley Maneuver, the patient should be prepared to refrain from any significant physical activity for the remainder of the day following the maneuver. The patient will also be required to sleep upright the night after the maneuver.

For more information on the Good Shepherd Vestibular Rehabilitation Program, contact us today or call 1-888-44-REHAB (24 hours a day, 365 days a year).