Advice

Yes, vestibular therapy does work, and it is highly effective for many people experiencing dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, or other vestibular disorders.

What Is Vestibular Therapy?

Vestibular therapy, also known as vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to address problems caused by inner ear and brain issues that affect balance and eye movements. It involves customized exercises that retrain the brain and body to adapt to the imbalance.

Conditions It Helps With

Vestibular therapy is commonly used for…

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
• Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis
• Meniere’s disease
• Post-concussion syndrome
• Unilateral or bilateral vestibular hypofunction
• Balance problems due to aging or neurological disorders

How It Works

A licensed vestibular therapist will assess your symptoms, eye movement control, balance, and gait. Treatment plans may include…

• Gaze stabilization exercises
• Balance training
• Canalith repositioning maneuvers (like the Epley maneuver)
• Habituation exercises to reduce dizziness through controlled exposure

Effectiveness

Research shows vestibular therapy significantly improves…
• Balance
• Gait stability
• Dizziness symptoms
• Confidence with movement
• Quality of life

For example, studies report success rates of over 80% for BPPV and strong improvements in functional balance for elderly patients and those with vestibular hypofunction.

Vestibular therapy is not a quick fix, but with consistency and professional guidance, it can be life-changing for many patients. The key is early intervention, personalized care, and adherence to prescribed exercises.