VESTIBULAR REHAB
& CONCUSSIONS
Symptoms of “ dizziness” are the number three reason people over the age of sixty-five seek medical attention. It is the number one reason people see a physician over the age of seventy but it can occur in people of ANY age. Fifty percent of people over the age of sixty-five can develop a specific type of vertigo /dizziness that can be alleviated by a specially trained physical therapist in usually just one treatment session . In all of these circumstances medical or surgical treatment is often not appropriate but vestibular rehabilitation can be very helpful.
Vestibular rehabilitation reduces dizziness-related problems and improves balance . It is an exercise-based program that is designed by a specially trained physical therapist and then individualized for each patient based on their needs.
United Physical Therapy is proud to offer Vestibular/Dizziness therapy at our Downtown, South, and West locations. Call or visit us today.
COMMON DESCRIPTIONS OF DIZZINESS BY PEOPLE:
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Lightheadedness
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Feeling unsteady
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Floating
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Funny feeling in head
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Feeling like going to pass out
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Spinning
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Swimming feeling in head
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Swaying
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Tilting
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Whirling
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Feeling like moving
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Vertigo
Any of these symptoms or feelings can last seconds, minutes , hours , days, weeks , or be episodic. These feelings of dizziness can occur when laying down , sitting , standing, changing positions ,or moving , or just when being still.
Most dizziness isn’t serious but could be due to an inner ear disorder , a mechanical problem , a neck issue , or from certain medications. In rare circumstances it could be a more serious problem like a brain or cardiac issue which your physical therapist is trained to screen for and refer to the appropriate cardiologist or neurologist.
COULD YOU BENEFIT FROM VESTIBULAR REHAB?
A trained physical therapist will review your medical history and perform a thorough physical examination. The physical therapy vestibular evaluation will include:
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strength evaluation of your upper extremities and lower extremities
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neck range of motion and arm and neck strength
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visual assessment looking at eye and head movements
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positional testing to see which positions cause dizziness
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inner ear assessment
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walking assessment
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balance assessment
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screen for BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
Once the assessment is complete your physical therapist will come up with a treatment plan that is individualized for you and your unique deficits / issues.
Participation in a vestibular rehabilitation program will improve your functional mobility and activities of daily living, reduce your risk of falling, and improve your quality of life!
United Physical Therapy is proud to offer Concussion rehab at our South, West, and Ascension locations. Call or visit us today.
CONCUSSION REHAB
Physical therapy for concussion rehabilitation is a specialized form of therapy designed to address the specific needs of individuals who have experienced a concussion. Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur from a blow to the head or a jolt to the body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, cognitive difficulties, and balance problems. Physical therapy for concussions focuses on alleviating these symptoms and supporting the patient's return to normal daily activities.
The approach to physical therapy for concussion rehab is multifaceted and tailored to each individual's symptoms and needs. Therapists may employ a range of techniques, including vestibular rehabilitation for balance and dizziness issues, cognitive exercises to improve concentration and memory, and physical exercises to strengthen the body and improve coordination. This targeted approach helps address the root causes of concussion symptoms, promoting a more efficient and effective recovery.
Physical therapy for concussion rehabilitation is beneficial for several reasons. It provides a structured and monitored program that ensures patients progress safely through the stages of recovery, minimizing the risk of re-injury or exacerbating symptoms. The personalized care and targeted interventions can significantly reduce recovery time, enabling patients to return to work, school, or sports more quickly. Additionally, physical therapists can provide education on managing symptoms at home and strategies for avoiding future concussions, empowering patients with the knowledge and tools needed for long-term health and well-being. This comprehensive approach to recovery makes physical therapy an invaluable component of concussion rehabilitation.