Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are Different Vestibular Therapy Exercises?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Vestibular therapy exercises are typically designed for overcoming symptoms of tinnitus and other vestibular disorders. Although vestibular problems are more common in adults, paroxysmal vertigo affects children as well. Therapy to help control dizziness and correct balance or coordination associated with this condition may include shoulder and neck exercises. Simple walking activities may also be included in vestibular therapy exercises.

Someone with certain abnormalities within the vestibular system may have difficulties with balance and equilibrium. Vestibular therapy exercises help the brain learn to adapt to the energy transmitted by the vestibular system. The exercises will help the brain interpret every transmission correctly, allowing the person to perform everyday activities without becoming off balance or dizzy. As a result, simple eye and head movements that are necessary for normal functioning will be better tolerated.

In humans, the sense of balance is mostly maintained by the vestibular system, which is the sensory system that detects acceleration or changes in movement.
In humans, the sense of balance is mostly maintained by the vestibular system, which is the sensory system that detects acceleration or changes in movement.

In many cases, experts recommend the patient perform 15-20 sets of each exercise. Most physical therapists or physicians recommend the patient perform vestibular therapy exercises two or three times daily for several weeks until symptoms improve. Many vestibular therapy exercises are referred to as head exercises. Some include bending movements while sitting down, while other exercises involve turning the head from side to side. As symptoms diminish, the patient may close his eyes while exercising.

Another type of vestibular exercise is known as a shoulder shrug. As the shoulders are being shrugged, it's important to rotate the head from side to side. Variations of this vestibular therapy exercise may be learned from a physical therapist.

Vestibular therapy consists of various exercises designed to help the patient regain her sense of balance and equilibrium.
Vestibular therapy consists of various exercises designed to help the patient regain her sense of balance and equilibrium.

Alternating between a sitting and standing position is another one of the recommended vestibular therapy exercises. The patient should begin with slow movements, then gradually work up to a faster pace. This activity may be repeated 15 times, alternating between open and closed eyes. Another type of standing activity may involve placing a pillow or other soft object under the feet and balancing without holding on to a chair or other object. For extra stimulation, this activity may be performed with eyes closed or by standing on one foot.

Vestibular therapy may benefit people who experience chronic dizziness and have problems with equilibrium.
Vestibular therapy may benefit people who experience chronic dizziness and have problems with equilibrium.

In addition to various standing and sitting activities, retraining the eyes by performing a series of gazing exercises may also be beneficial. These vestibular therapy exercises are performed by focusing on an object or target from within a specified distance. As with any of the vestibular therapy exercises, patients should consult with a physician before beginning a program.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • In humans, the sense of balance is mostly maintained by the vestibular system, which is the sensory system that detects acceleration or changes in movement.
      By: Rob hyrons
      In humans, the sense of balance is mostly maintained by the vestibular system, which is the sensory system that detects acceleration or changes in movement.
    • Vestibular therapy consists of various exercises designed to help the patient regain her sense of balance and equilibrium.
      By: Ambrophoto
      Vestibular therapy consists of various exercises designed to help the patient regain her sense of balance and equilibrium.
    • Vestibular therapy may benefit people who experience chronic dizziness and have problems with equilibrium.
      By: elizalebedewa
      Vestibular therapy may benefit people who experience chronic dizziness and have problems with equilibrium.
    • People with abnormalities within the vestibular system may have difficulties with balance.
      By: Christian Müller
      People with abnormalities within the vestibular system may have difficulties with balance.