Services

Vestibular Rehab and Fall Prevention

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

Over 69 million people have experienced vestibular dysfunction at some point in their lives. VRT may help control symptoms, reduce functional disabilities and improve quality of life. A majority of adults living with vestibular disorders often go undiagnosed and untreated, resulting in a diminished quality of life and inability to perform the normal activities of daily living. Patients suffering from vestibular disorders often experience:

  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Positional or persistent vertigo
  • Nausea
  • Impaired postural control 

Fall Prevention

Falls are the most common cause of emergency room visits among older adults. When the body is thrown off balance, there are a normal series of specific “righting reactions” the body goes through to keep itself from falling.  As we age, the body begins to lose control of that righting series and eventually balance reactions can become sluggish and less responsive, resulting in an increased risk of falls.  The Fall Prevention and Risk Reduction Program is specially designed to help individuals maintain or increase their independence and identify individuals who may be at risk of falling. 

Our certified therapists will evaluate a person’s risk of falling by assessing balance, mobility and strength. A personalized plan of care will be designed to meet individual needs. Balance training exercises will be used to help the body “practice” the balance righting series and allow reaction times to be more automatic, decreasing the risk of falls. Dynamic strengthening exercises will also prepare the body to respond and react to a loss of balance with less risk of falling. Recommendations will be made to address factors in the home, work and community environments that may contribute to increased fall risk.

The Benefits of the Fall Prevention and Risk Reduction Program

  • Address loss of strength, mobility and coordination
  • Help individuals to stay living independently or return to independent living after a fall
  • Improve balance to reduce the risk of a fall