What is Vestibular Neuritis?
Vestibular neuritis is a condition that affects the vestibular nerve, which carries balance information from the inner ear to the brain. It is usually caused by a viral infection that leads to inflammation of the nerve, disrupting the brain's ability to process balance signals correctly.
Vestibular neuritis typically causes the sudden onset of severe dizziness or vertigo, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, poor balance and difficulty walking. Unlike some other inner ear conditions, it does not usually affect hearing. The most intense symptoms often improve over several days, but many people continue to experience dizziness, imbalance or sensitivity to movement for weeks or even months afterwards.
With specialist vestibular rehabilitation, most people make an excellent recovery.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Vestibular physiotherapy plays a vital role in recovery from vestibular neuritis. Once the acute stage has settled, specific exercises encourage the brain to adapt to the changes in balance information from the affected ear—a process known as vestibular compensation.
At Greenacre Physio, treatment may include:
- Comprehensive vestibular assessment
- Balance and gait retraining
- Gaze stabilisation exercises
- Vestibular rehabilitation exercises
- Habituation exercises for motion sensitivity
- Functional rehabilitation for everyday activities
- Falls prevention strategies
- Return to work, driving and sport guidance
- Personalised home exercise programmes
Our rehabilitation is tailored to your symptoms, ensuring exercises are progressed safely as your recovery improves.
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 neuritis through specialist NHS vestibular and neurological services, as well as private practice.
We understand that ongoing dizziness can affect every aspect of life, including work, driving, exercise and confidence. Through evidence-based assessment and rehabilitation, we aim to reduce your symptoms, restore your balance and help you return to your normal activities as quickly as possible.
Appointments are available at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as through home visits and virtual consultations.
What to Expect
During your first appointment, we will discuss your symptoms, medical history and how your dizziness affects your daily life. We will carry out a detailed vestibular assessment, including assessment of your eye movements, balance, walking and vestibular function.
Once vestibular neuritis has been identified, we will explain your diagnosis and develop a personalised rehabilitation programme. Your exercises will be progressed as your symptoms improve, helping your brain adapt and recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does vestibular neuritis last?
The severe spinning sensation usually improves within a few days, but balance problems and dizziness can persist for several weeks or months. Vestibular rehabilitation can help speed up recovery and reduce long-term symptoms.
Can vestibular neuritis come back?
Most people experience vestibular neuritis only once. Although recurrence is uncommon, it can happen in a small number of people.
Should I rest until the dizziness goes away?
During the first few days, rest may be necessary while symptoms are severe. However, prolonged rest can slow recovery. Once medically appropriate, gradual movement and vestibular exercises help the brain compensate more effectively.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio. We also accept referrals from GPs, ENT consultants, neurologists and other healthcare professionals.
Book an Appointment
If you have been diagnosed with vestibular neuritis or are experiencing ongoing dizziness following a viral illness, 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.
Common Symptoms We Treat
- Sudden vertigo
- Persistent dizziness
- Balance problems
- Difficulty walking
- Motion sensitivity
- Blurred vision during head movements
- Nausea associated with movement
- Reduced confidence with mobility
- Difficulty returning to work or driving
- Persistent symptoms following vestibular neuritis
Why Choose Greenacre Physio for Vestibular Neuritis?
Recovering from vestibular neuritis isn't simply about waiting for the dizziness to settle. Many people continue to experience imbalance, motion sensitivity and reduced confidence long after the initial illness. At Greenacre Physio, we use evidence-based vestibular rehabilitation to help your brain adapt to changes in the balance system, reducing symptoms and improving recovery.
Our clinicians have specialist experience working within NHS vestibular and neurological services, providing comprehensive assessments and personalised rehabilitation programmes. Whether your symptoms began recently or have persisted for months, we will work with you to restore your balance, confidence and quality of life.