How to Recognize Symptoms of a Vestibular System Dysfunction and Where to Start!
The vestibular system is a key component of our ability to maintain balance, orient ourselves in space, and move efficiently. When it functions properly, we remain stable and coordinated. However, when the vestibular system is compromised, it can lead to a range of disruptive and often confusing symptoms.
At Rebalance Physical Therapy, we specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular system dysfunctions through targeted vestibular rehabilitation.
In this blog, we'll explore the common symptoms of vestibular dysfunction and how vestibular physical therapy can provide relief. This is not an exhaustive list just some of the most common. Look out for a symptom list below that our patients tell us in the clinic everyday, thinking they are alone. But they are not and that is a big reason we are writing this blog. So if you see any of your symptoms on this list, you can get better!
Common Symptoms of Vestibular System Dysfunction
1. Dizziness and Vertigo
One of the hallmark symptoms of vestibular dysfunction is dizziness, which can range from mild light-headedness to severe vertigo. Vertigo is the sensation that the environment or oneself is spinning, even when stationary. This can make everyday tasks, such as walking or standing, extremely difficult.
2. Balance Problems and Unsteadiness
Vestibular dysfunction often causes a person to feel unsteady, especially when walking or turning. You might find yourself veering to one side, feeling wobbly, or unable to walk in a straight line. These balance issues can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
3. Visual Disturbances
When the vestibular system is impaired, it can affect your vision. Common symptoms include blurry or jumping vision, particularly when moving your head quickly. Some individuals also experience difficulty focusing on objects, a condition known as oscillopsia .
4. Nausea and Vomiting
The sensory mismatch caused by vestibular dysfunction can lead to nausea and, in severe cases, vomiting. This symptom is often triggered by head movements or sudden changes in body position, particularly during episodes of vertigo.
5. Brain Fog and Difficulty Concentrating
Many individuals with vestibular dysfunction report feelings of brain fog, mental fatigue, or difficulty focusing on tasks. This cognitive impact is often due to the brain’s overcompensation for the malfunctioning vestibular system, leading to increased mental strain.
6. Feeling of Rocking
Some people with vestibular dysfunction describe a sensation of constantly rocking or swaying, similar to being on a boat. This is known as Mal de Debarquement syndrome (MdDS) and can persist even when stationary.
7. Headaches and Neck Pain
Vestibular disorders can cause tension and discomfort in the neck and head due to the body’s attempt to stabilize itself. Persistent headaches or a sensation of tightness in the neck are common complaints .
List our patients tell us everyday:
Brain sloshing
Being pushed or pulled to one side
Like the ground is moving under them
Floating
“Phone” sickness from scrolling
How Rebalance Physical Therapy Can Help
At Rebalance Physical Therapy, we offer specialized vestibular rehabilitation programs tailored to your specific needs. Our programs focus on restoring balance, improving visual stability, and reducing dizziness through evidence-based techniques such as:
1. Gaze Stabilization Exercises
These exercises help improve the coordination between your eyes and head movements, reducing visual disturbances and dizziness.
2. Balance and Coordination Training
By strengthening the body's proprioception (awareness of body position) and retraining the vestibular system, we help patients regain stability and prevent falls.
3. Habituation Therapy
This approach involves gradual exposure to the movements that trigger symptoms. Over time, the brain learns to adapt, reducing the severity of dizziness and vertigo.
4. Comprehensive Evaluation and Customized Treatment
Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools, such as RightEye software, to assess your vestibular function. Based on this detailed analysis, we develop a personalized treatment plan designed to address your unique symptoms. We at Rebalance have developed a journal to help you track your symptoms with the purpose of finding patterns and root causes! This journal is available HERE!
But one of the biggest things we can give to our patients is the realization that they are not alone and things can be done to get feel better!
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms and want to talk about them, set up our FREE 15 minute phone consultation. This phone call can be the difference between staying in your symptoms and starting your path to feeling better! Schedule that call today!