Vestibular Disorders

What are Vestibular disorders?

The vestibular system involves the brain, inner ear and eyes and assists with balance, movement, and eye coordination. Conditions involving the vestibular system can cause your child to feel dizzy, off balance, or vision changes. If your child has these symptoms, it is important for them to be evaluated by their pediatrician to rule out a more serious problem.

Once cleared by their pediatrician or medical care team, your child may be referred to physical therapy to address the symptoms of conditions that can affect the vestibular system such as Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), concussion or head injuries, eye movement disorders, juvenile arthritis, Meniere’s disease, migraine, hypotension (low blood pressure), seizures or stroke.

How can our physical therapists help with vestibular disorders?

During your child’s physical therapy session, they may receive:

Therapeutic exercise

Manual therapy

Balance training

Neuromuscular training

Vestibular Training

Oculomotor training

Postural training

Gross motor training