Treatments

Vestibular rehabilitation

Vestibular rehabilitation is exercise-based therapy for dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems. It is one of the best-studied approaches for these symptoms, and it is a core part of how we help people with balance concerns at Strong Tower. This page explains what it is, what benefits people look for, and what to expect. It is general information, not a diagnosis.

What is vestibular rehabilitation?

Cleveland Clinic describes vestibular rehabilitation as an exercise-based program, led by a specially trained therapist, to improve balance and reduce dizziness-related problems. It lists dizziness, imbalance, vertigo, BPPV, and neck-related dizziness and migraines among the conditions it may help, and notes that people recovering from stroke or brain injury, or who fall often, may also benefit. Typical exercises include gaze stability exercises, repositioning maneuvers for positional dizziness, posture training, stretching and strengthening, balance and gait training, neck motion exercises, and general conditioning (Cleveland Clinic).

What does the research say?

A clinical practice guideline published in 2016 gives a strong recommendation to offer vestibular rehabilitation to adults with peripheral vestibular hypofunction (Hall and colleagues, Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy). A 2022 systematic review of seven randomized trials concluded that it "seems to be a valid approach" for dizziness after a concussion (Healthcare, 2022).

When to get a medical evaluation first

New dizziness needs a medical evaluation. Sudden dizziness with weakness, trouble speaking, double vision, or a severe headache can signal a stroke. Call 911. Some causes of dizziness, such as BPPV, may be treated with a specific repositioning procedure. See our BPPV page.

Who it may help

People with dizziness or unsteadiness from inner ear problems

People with lingering dizziness after a concussion

People with neck-related dizziness

People with vestibular migraine or PPPD, alongside medical care

People who feel unsteady and want to reduce their fall risk

See our Vertigo & Balance, Post-Concussion Syndrome, Vestibular Migraine, and PPPD pages.

How we use it at Strong Tower

Dr. Wright is a Doctor of Chiropractic with advanced training in functional neurology. He is not an ENT or a physical therapist. Care starts with an evaluation, described on our Neurological Exam & Evaluation page. We look at which part of the balance system may be struggling: the inner ears, the eyes, the neck, or how the brain combines them. Then we build exercises to challenge that part, such as gaze stability, head movement, and balance work, at a pace you can tolerate. Exercises are usually done at home as well as in the office.

Some exercises can bring on dizziness for a short time. We go step by step and adjust. If your symptoms worsen, tell us.

Our care is meant to be complementary to your medical care.

Questions people ask

Will the exercises make me dizzy?

Some can, briefly. That is expected with some exercises, and we adjust the pace.

How long does it take?

It varies by person and cause. We talk through what to expect after your evaluation.

Do I need a diagnosis first?

If your dizziness is new or unexplained, see your doctor. We can work alongside your medical team.

Is vestibular rehabilitation the same as physical therapy?

Many physical therapists specialize in it. Dr. Wright is not a physical therapist, and we are a complementary option.

Can I do the exercises at home?

Usually yes, and home practice is often part of the plan.

Next steps

Take the next step

If dizziness or unsteadiness is getting in the way,