Why have I been
referred to the Physiotherapist?
Following consultation with the
doctor you have been referred for Vestibular Rehabilitation.
The physiotherapist will assess your dizziness/unsteadiness
and will advise you on the best exercises to perform to help
you manage and improve your symptoms.
What can I
expect?
The physiotherapist will want to
know about your dizziness/unsteadiness and how it affects your
daily life. They may then look at your balance in various
positions eg. walking and standing and do other tests for
dizziness. They will then discuss with you the best way to
manage your symptoms.
Why do I need to exercise?
To help the brain learn how not
to feel dizzy so that you can take control of the symptoms you
experience.
What about my other
symptoms?
Although the
process of recovery after a dizzy spell can
happen to some extent automatically, the speed
of recovery varies. You may find that it is
unpleasant to move your head as it brings on the
dizziness and decide to keep your head very
still. Avoiding movement however delays
recovery. It can also lead to developing neck
tension. If the symptoms persist for a long
time, other problems may develop. These may
include:
• Loss of confidence
• An inability to plan your life
• A reduction of hobbies or leisure activities
So restricted movement can lead to a progressive loss of
function.
Will the exercises
bring on my symptoms?
The exercises you
will be taught and which will be demonstrated to
you by the physiotherapist are designed to ‘reprogramme’
your brain to ‘tune-out’ the dizzy sensations.
The exercises will bring on your symptoms but in
a very controlled manner. If you do not bring on
the dizziness at all, the exercises will not
work.
When should I do the
exercises?
You will be guided
on how to do the exercises at your own pace, and
you can therefore choose how to plan and fit
them into your own day.
Will I need to come
to Physiotherapy again?
You will be
reviewed by the physiotherapist to determine
that the exercises are suited to you and check
on your progress.
