Vestibular/Balance Rehabilitation

Dizziness is among the most common symptoms leading patients to seek medical care. Dizziness can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from dehydration to more serious neurologic diseases. Therefore, it is important to be evaluated by the appropriate health care professional.

Most causes of dizziness resolve on their own and do not pose serious harm. However, if you experience dizziness along with a severe headache, slurred speech, facial droop or weakness on one side of the body, seek immediate medical attention.

Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness often resulting from diseases of a specialized part of the inner ear, called the vestibular system, and is defined as the false perception that you or your surroundings are spinning. Vertigo is frequently accompanied by other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and balance impairments. Individuals who suffer from vertigo are at a higher risk of falls and may begin decreasing their participation in normal daily activities, as well as recreational, social and work activities.

At UF Health, we have physical therapists trained specifically in vestibular evaluation and rehabilitation techniques who can help reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Evaluations will include detailed examination of your eye movements, balance and ability to move about your environment. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a detailed plan of care to include exercises targeting your specific problems and safely return you to your prior level of activity.