Neurology
The neurology team at Main Line Health treats and manages conditions such as migraines, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and more.
Vestibular Therapy
What is vestibular therapy?
Balance is about much more than good vision, sturdy feet and staying away from the edge. Tiny organs deep in the inner ear, known as the vestibular system, help the brain keep the body on an even keel. But inner ear disorders, neurological problems, stroke, or other types of head or spinal injuries can result in chronic or acute dizziness, nausea and vertigo. At Bryn Mawr Rehab we help patients get back to active, normal living, and with several outpatient locations in the western suburbs of Philadelphia, there's sure to be a vestibular therapist near you.
What’s involved in vestibular therapy?
The many vestibular therapies available at Bryn Mawr Rehab give you the tools to successfully manage your symptoms. Based on individual evaluation of your condition, a vestibular therapist may apply a range of physical and occupational therapy techniques, such as:
- Sensorimotor retraining – in which we introduce balance techniques
- Visual exercises – which improve your ability to maintain gaze while in motion
- Home exercises – enabling independent condition management
- Patient/family education – teaching others how to identify dizziness triggers and develop strategies to minimize the effects
Our dedicated team uses state-of-the-art technology, like the Smart Balance Master®, to understand sensory input and improve balance control. Vestibular therapy patients participate in physical, occupational and speech therapy, as needed, and have access to supplementary services like aquatic therapy and driver rehab. Our ultimate goal is getting every patient back to their workplace, household responsibilities, family and social life.
Nearly half of our vestibular therapy patients arrive at Bryn Mawr Rehab because their symptoms interfere with their job or home life. Many have already tried medications or even surgeries to manage their symptoms. Vestibular therapy helps people with acute or chronic dizziness, balance deficits—often related to stroke, brain injury or other neurologic problems—and loss of function as a result.