WHAT IS THE VESTIBULAR SYSTEM?

The vestibular system is a sensory organ located within the inner ear. It comprises of two types of sensors: the 3 Semi-Circular Canals (SCC) and the 2 Otolith organs. These sensory organs detect head motion and in turn generate reflexes that stabilize our gaze and maintain our head and body posture. The SCC detect angular motion such as nodding or shaking your head. The Otolith organs (namely the Saccule and Utricle) detect linear motion such as up/ down like in an elevator, or accelerating/ decelerating like in a car. This information from the vestibular system is relayed to the brain. In turn it controls eye muscles to provide gaze stability, neck muscles to maintain head stability as well as generating compensatory body movement to maintain postural stability and thus prevent falls. As such together with our vision and proprioception (muscles and joints) the vestibular system forms a key element of our balance system.
If the system is damaged by disease, aging or injury it can result in a vestibular disorder.

Vertigo/ Dizziness
Nausea/ vomitting
Loss of balance
Hearing loss or change
Unsteady walking
Poor concentration
Eye fatigue
Headaches
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

VESTIBULAR REHABILITATION

SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH A VESTIBULAR DISORDER

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is a specialised form of physiotherapy designed to address dizziness, imbalance, difficulty maintaining clear vision, and functional decline as a result of a vestibular disorder. Evidence has shown that vestibular rehabilitation is effective in improving symptoms related to many vestibular (inner ear/balance) disorders.

At MDBC We provide evidence-based Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT), delivered by certified physiotherapists. Each treatment plan is carefully tailored to the individual needs of the patient, based on a comprehensive assessment, current clinical research, and best-practice guidelines.

Treatment may include:

Canalith repositioning manoeuvres for BPPV
Gaze stabilization exercises to improve vision during head movement
Habituation therapy to reduce sensitivity to motion
Balance and gait retraining to reduce fall risk and restore confidence
Education and self-management strategies for long-term outcomes