Vestibular disorders

What are Vestibular Disorders?

Vestibular disorders are conditions that affect the vestibular system—the balance organs within the inner ear and the parts of the brain responsible for processing balance and spatial awareness. When this system is disrupted, it can cause dizziness, vertigo, imbalance and difficulties with vision during movement.

There are many different vestibular disorders, including Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, vestibular migraine, Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD), Ménière's disease, and vestibular hypofunction. Some neurological conditions and concussions can also affect the vestibular system.

Symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause but commonly include dizziness, spinning sensations (vertigo), unsteadiness, blurred vision with head movement, motion sensitivity, nausea and an increased risk of falls. These symptoms can make everyday activities such as walking, driving, shopping or exercising much more difficult.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Vestibular physiotherapy is a specialist form of rehabilitation that aims to identify the cause of your symptoms and help your brain and balance system adapt and recover. Following a detailed assessment, we will develop an individual treatment programme tailored to your diagnosis and symptoms.

Treatment may include:

Comprehensive vestibular assessment
Positional testing for BPPV
Canalith repositioning manoeuvres (such as the Epley manoeuvre)
Vestibular rehabilitation exercises
Gaze stabilisation exercises
Balance and gait retraining
Habituation exercises to reduce motion sensitivity
Falls prevention strategies
Education and advice on managing symptoms
Personalised home exercise programmes

Our aim is to reduce dizziness, improve balance, restore confidence and help you return to everyday activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Why Choose Greenacre Physio?

Vestibular rehabilitation is one of Greenacre Physio's specialist areas. Our clinicians have extensive experience assessing and treating people with vestibular disorders through specialist NHS vestibular and neurological services, as well as private practice. We regularly work with people experiencing both new and long-standing dizziness, helping them return to work, driving, sport and everyday life.

We understand that accurate diagnosis is essential. Many vestibular disorders can appear similar but require very different treatments. We take the time to perform a comprehensive assessment so we can identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide the most appropriate rehabilitation programme.

Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations.

What to Expect

Your first appointment will include a detailed discussion about your symptoms, medical history and the situations that trigger your dizziness or imbalance. This will be followed by a comprehensive vestibular assessment, including examination of your eye movements, balance, walking and, where appropriate, positional testing.

Once we have identified the likely cause of your symptoms, we will explain your diagnosis and develop a personalised rehabilitation programme. Your exercises and treatment will be progressed as your symptoms improve, helping you regain confidence and return to your usual activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the vestibular system?

The vestibular system is your body's balance system. It includes structures within the inner ear and the brain that help you maintain balance, stabilise your vision and understand where your body is in space.

Can vestibular disorders be treated?

Yes. Many vestibular disorders respond extremely well to specialist physiotherapy. Some conditions, such as BPPV, may improve after only one or two treatments, while others require a longer programme of vestibular rehabilitation.

Will I need scans?

Not necessarily. Many vestibular disorders can be diagnosed through a detailed clinical assessment. If we identify signs that require further medical investigation, we will advise you accordingly and liaise with your GP or consultant where appropriate.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio. We also accept referrals from GPs, ENT consultants, neurologists, audiologists and other healthcare professionals.

Book an Appointment

If you are experiencing dizziness, vertigo or balance problems and would like a specialist vestibular assessment, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics, arrange a home visit, or schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced vestibular physiotherapists.