Physical Therapy - Unilateral or Bilateral Vestibular Loss
The body’s balance system, controlled, in part, by the labyrinth or inner ear, can be damaged in a number of waysæinfections, head injury, benign tumors, or degeneration from aging. Once there is damage, the body is in a state of disequilibrium, forcing the brain to try to recalibrate itself to compensate for the unmatched signals being sent from the damaged vs the normal ear. The result is a balance problem. Therapy usually consists of learning exercises that reintroduce the brain to the concept of normal motion.
For more information about vestibular conditions, visit one of these Web sites:
WebMD at: www.webmd.com (search vestibular)
Vestibular Disorders Association (VEDA) at: www.vestibular.org