Vestibular disorders can cause dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, hearing changes, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, difficulty concentrating and other symptoms. This can have devastating effects on a person's day-to-day functioning, relationships with family and friends and quality of life.

A large percentage of the adult population reports episodes of dizziness or vertigo during their lifetime. Many of these cases involve the inner ear. Other causes are problems unrelated to the inner ear, such as cardiovascular, neurological or psychological disorders.

Dizziness and vertigo due to inner ear disorder can be treated successfully with vestibular rehab. The term "Vestibular rehab" refers to specific exercises and maneuvers to address dizziness, vertigo and imbalance prescribed by a physical therapist with specialization in this field. The Physical Therapy team at Cooley Dickinson Hospital offers a Vestibular Rehab Program led by a senior therapist who has achieved nationally recognized credentialing in the treatment of dizziness and imbalance.

The following diagnoses are most commonly:
- BPPV (benign positional paroxysmal vertigo), which can be treated quickly with repositioning maneuvers,
- Inner ear weakness following an inner ear infection(labyrinthitis/vestibular neuritis), which improves with special exercises designed for recovery,
- Age-related imbalance, which will improve with patient-specific exercises for balance, leg strength, and flexibility.


We resolve dizzy spells, reduce your fear of falling, improve your balance and confidence, enhance your mobility and safety, improve your quality of life.

We recommend that you discuss the possible benefits of Vestibular Rehab with your physician and ask for a physical therapy consultation. Once obtained, simply call one of our offices to set up an appointment.

To learn more about injuries related to motion, visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons