Vestibular therapy in Des Peres, MO. Experiencing balance or coordination issues can be unsettling and frightening. It can be especially frustrating when issues like dizziness or other vestibular conditions prevent us from enjoying our favorite activities. Vestibular therapy, a specific kind of physical therapy, is pivotal in managing and rehabilitating inner ear problems that typically present as dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues. This specific therapy approach focuses on reducing these symptoms. By utilizing evidence-backed treatment methods, vestibular therapy at Axes Physical Therapy in Des Peres, MO aims to retrain the vestibular system to compensate for inner ear deficits, enhancing balance and minimizing problems related to dizziness and getting you back to the things you most enjoy.

We offer personalized treatment plans for Des Peres, MO patients, crafted after a thorough evaluation and designed to tackle the unique challenges each patient faces as a result of their vestibular disorder. If you or someone you know is suffering from vertigo, dizziness, or balance issues, don’t hesitate to contact the Axes location nearest you for a free injury screening or to request an appointment online now. Our mission is delivering personalized care and comprehensive solutions for those dealing with vestibular difficulties.

How the Vestibular System Works

Situated in the inner ear, the vestibular system is responsible for detecting changes in our head position and movement, consequently helping our bodies to understand where we are spatially and traverse our environment correctly.

The vestibular system consists of the semicircular canals and the otolith organs. The semicircular canals are sensitive to rotational movements, like turning the head, while the otolith organs detect linear movements, like moving forward or sideways and changes in head position relative to gravity. Both parts work together, to send signals to the brain about our body’s position and motion.

The brain processes these signals, merging them with information from other systems, particularly the visual system and proprioceptors in our muscles and joints. By synergizing these varied inputs, the brain effectively ensures our ability to understand and react to our environment.

Most people probably never realize the importance of this system until its function is disrupted. When the vestibular system is working as it’s supposed to, we can walk, run, and move through our daily lives (and favorite activities) without having to worry too much about the complex processes that keep us balanced and oriented. But, if the system becomes disrupted, it can lead to significant challenges, affecting our ability to perform even the simplest of tasks.

Signs and Symptoms of Vestibular Disorders

Vestibular disorders are characterized by a broad spectrum of symptoms, varying in severity and duration. You should seek a consultation with a healthcare professional like a physical therapist at Axes in Des Peres, MO if you experience any of the following repeatedly or for a prolonged period of time:

• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Blurred vision
• Hearing loss
• Fullness of the ear
• Motion intolerance
• Double vision
• Motion sickness
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Falling or stumbling
• Abnormal eye movements
• Fatigue
• Imbalance
• Floating sensation
• Tinnitus
• Headaches or migraines
• Confusion
• Light sensitivity

Common Disorders Affecting the Vestibular System

Although the vestibular system is strong, it’s not impervious to disorders. These issues can significantly disrupt a person’s balance and spatial orientation. Some of the most common vestibular disorders our Des Peres, MO physical therapists treat include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This condition is characterized by brief episodes of vertigo (a spinning sensation) typically triggered by changes in head position. BPPV occurs when tiny calcium particles (canaliths) gather in the canals of the inner ear, altering the ear’s ability to sense head motion.
• Labyrinthitis and Vestibular Neuritis: Labyrinthitis and Vestibular Neuritis involve inflammation, either of the inner ear itself (labyrinthitis) or the vestibular nerve (vestibular neuritis). The inflammation can lead to vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance.
• Meniere’s Disease: A chronic disorder that affects the inner ear, Meniere’s disease is characterized by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Vestibular Migraine: This type of migraine is associated with vestibular symptoms like dizziness, vertigo, and balance disturbances, even when not accompanied by a headache.
• Chronic Dizziness: This can be a result of various conditions, including vestibular disorders. It’s a persistent sensation of unsteadiness or a spinning sensation, significantly impacting daily activities.
• Age-Related Vestibular Loss: As people get older, they may experience a decline in vestibular function, leading to balance issues and a heightened risk of falls.
• Falls: A heightened chance of falling can be a consequence of various vestibular disorders, notably in older adults.
• Post-Concussion Syndrome: In the aftermath of a concussion, individuals may experience vestibular issues such as dizziness, balance problems, and controlling the eyes.

How Des Peres, MO Physical Therapists Use Vestibular Therapy in Treatment

Vestibular therapy utilizes a range of specialized techniques and exercises — backed by research — crafted to alleviate the symptoms caused by vestibular disorders. Such techniques are tailored to your unique needs and are based on a thorough assessment by a skilled Des Peres, MO physical therapist. Below are some of the key approaches used in VRT:

• Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Particularly employed for treating Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), these maneuvers involve specific head and body movements. The goal is to move the move crystals in the inner ear (otoliths) back to their correct place. The Epley maneuver is a common example of this technique.
• Gaze Stabilization Exercises: These exercises are essential for patients who have trouble focusing their eyes due to vestibular disorders. Methods like the VOR (Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex) exercises assist in improving the coordination between the eyes and the inner ear system, improving visual stability during head movements.
• Balance Training: Balance is often significantly affected in individuals with vestibular disorders. These balance-enhancing exercises are intended to boost steadiness and minimize the risk of falls. Such exercises gradually progress in difficulty and might include various surfaces, dynamic movements, and even eyes-closed exercises to test and enhance the patient’s balance.
• Habituation Exercises: These exercises are designed for patients who suffer from dizziness as a result of certain movements or positions. These exercises entail repeated exposure to these specific movements to minimize the sensitivity of the vestibular system to them over time.
• Functional Retraining: Functional retraining encompasses integrating vestibular exercises into daily activities to enhance mobility and independence. This approach focuses on making the therapy relevant and practical to the real-life scenarios one might face every day.
• Neck Mobility and Strengthening Exercises: Given that neck problems often accompany vestibular issues, particularly after a concussion, activities designed to enhance neck strength and flexibility are also incorporated into the therapy regimen.
• Oculomotor Exercises: For addressing issues with eye tracking and movement, practices that focus on improving control, coordination, and focus of the eyes are used. These are especially important for those with oculomotor dysfunction.

Personalized Treatment Options for Des Peres, MO Vestibular Therapy

Each patient’s experience with vestibular disorders is unique and requires an individualized approach to treatment. Our Des Peres, MO physical therapists create customized plans based on the scientifically proven methods to work and your unique situation, including:

• Individual Symptom Profile: Therapies are tailored around the specific symptoms and challenges you face.
• Severity and Duration of the Disorder: Therapy intensity and duration are modified according to the severity and chronicity of the disorder.
• Patient’s Lifestyle and Goals: Rehabilitation approaches consider the patient’s daily activities, work demands, personal recovery goals, and the activities they enjoy most that they would like to get back to.

Why Choose Axes for Vestibular Therapy in Des Peres, MO

Here’s why Axes Physical Therapy is a preferred choice for vestibular therapy in Des Peres, MO:

• Expertise in Vestibular Therapy: We are proud to have a team of highly skilled Des Peres, MO physical therapists who are experts in the field of vestibular therapy. Our expertise is not just rooted in our understanding of the vestibular system but also in our skill in applying this knowledge to create effective, personalized treatment plans.
• Patient-Centered Care: At Axes, each patient’s experience and recovery journey are at the forefront. We understand that your condition and challenges are unique. Our approach is deeply rooted in attentively listening to and comprehending our patients’ specific needs and goals.
• Experienced Staff: The Des Peres, MO vestibular therapy team at Axes is not only qualified but also brings extensive experience to your treatment. Our therapists have been leading the way in physical therapy for over two decades. This depth of experience means that patients are in competent hands, benefiting from a vast knowledge base and a proven history of successful treatments.
• Comprehensive Assessment and Personalized Treatment: Axes begins with a thorough assessment to understand the root cause of the vestibular disorder. Following this, we create a personalized treatment strategy that may include various approaches such as balance training, gaze stabilization, and canalith repositioning maneuvers, among others.
• Commitment to Improving Lives: Axes’ mission extends beyond just treating symptoms. We are devoted to bettering our patients’ overall quality of life, empowering you to return to your daily activities with confidence and safety.
• Community Trust and Recognition: As a locally owned and operated clinic, Axes has built a reputation within the Des Peres, MO community for our dedication to patient care and effective treatment results.

Contact Axes Physical Therapy in Des Peres, MO for Your Vestibular Therapy

Dealing with a vestibular disorder can be a tough and disorienting journey. These conditions not only impact physical equilibrium and mobility but influence our capability to live in and interact with the world. Vestibular disorders often do not improve on their own and can deteriorate over time. Professional vestibular therapy in Des Peres, MO, like that offered by Axes Physical Therapy, provides a targeted approach to relieve symptoms, recover function, and get you back to the activities you love, all while using scientifically supported treatment methods.

If you or someone you know in Des Peres, MO is experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, balance problems, or complications following a concussion, contact Axes Physical Therapy today. Taking that first step towards treatment can be transformative. Contact us online or call the nearest Axes location to start your treatment journey.