Function of vestibular system :
Transformation of the forces associated with head acceleration and gravity into biological signals that the brain can use to develop subjective awareness of head position in space (orientation) . Produce motor reflexes that will maintain posture and ocular stability
It is not surprising that vestibular lesions cause:
The word “vertigo” comes from the Latin “vertere”, to turn + the suffix “-igo”, a condition = a condition of turning about). It is an illusion of self-rotation or feeling of surroundings rotating around you.
Collections of calcium, inflammation and certain infections can cause problems in the vestibular system. The Vestibular system comprises of the inner ear and the nervous system which control the balance. The most common types of vertigo caused by inner ear affections are paroxysmal positional vertigo, Meniere’s disease and vestibular neuritis.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) commonly referred to positional vertigo is developed due to collection of calcium in the inner ear. These calcium collections are called canaloliths which are moved to treat the BPPV. It is the most common treatment for BPPV. Vertigo in people with BPPV is brief lasting from few seconds to minutes.
Meniere’s disease is a condition which causes repeated vertigo spells, hearing loss and ringing in the ears. This results due to build up of fluid in the inner ear. The vertigo in this case can last from minutes to several hours.
Vestibular Neuritis is commonly known as labyrinthitis. It is cause swelling around the nerve responsible for balance. A sudden nausea, vomiting, difficulty in standing and walking develops. This type of vertigo can last up to several days. Hearing loss is one ear is associated in such cases.
Head injury adversely affecting the vestibular system leads to vertigo.
Medications which damage the function of inner ear can lead to vertigo. In such cases even the brain may get affected
Migraine Vertigo is caused in association with severe migraine headache attack. It is called as vestibular migraine.
Brain stroke or TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) leading to bleeding in the brain or ischemia (hampered blood supply) to the brain can also cause vertigo.
Vertigo Treatment in Mumbai through a Super Speciality Vertigo Clinic conceived and developed by Dr. Sanjay Helale at Kohinoor Hospital’s ENT Department. Vertigo Treatment in Mumbai through a unique approach makes this Vertigo Clinic one of its kinds in Maharashtra State.
Vestibular rehabilitation is an exercise-based program, designed by a specialty-trained vestibular physical therapist, to improve balance and reduce problems related to dizziness.
Patients typically referred for vestibular rehabilitation therapy are those diagnosed with dizziness, imbalance, vertigo, Meniere’s syndrome, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), neck-related dizziness and migraines. Other candidates are patients who have had a stroke or brain injury or who frequently fall.
Common symptoms that can be helped with vestibular rehabilitation include:
At your appointment, a physical therapist will evaluate your symptoms and review your medical history. Your assessment will include all or part of the following areas:
Based on the findings, a plan of care is developed. The goal of your treatment plan is to improve any deficits that were identified. This, in turn, will improve your ability to function in activities of everyday living, reduce your risk for falling and ultimately, improve your quality of life.