Vestibular Coordination Problems

A vestibular problem refers to any dysfunction of the vestibular system, which is responsible for sensing movement and maintaining balance. Symptoms can vary depending on the specific vestibular disorder, but some common signs and symptoms include:

• Vertigo or dizziness, which can feel like a spinning sensation
• Difficulty with balance and coordination
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
• Sensitivity to bright lights and loud noises
• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears

The causes of vestibular problems can vary, but can include head injuries, viral infections, and disorders such as Meniere’s disease or vestibular migraines.

Treatment for vestibular problems often involves physical therapy to help improve balance, reduce dizziness, and increase strength and flexibility. A physiotherapist, chiropractor, or osteopath may perform exercises and maneuvers to help retrain the vestibular system and improve balance. They may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as a low-salt diet or stress management techniques.

Some exercises that may be helpful for a vestibular problem include:

1. Brandt-Daroff exercise: This exercise involves sitting up and then quickly moving into a lying position on one side, then sitting up again, and then lying on the other side. Repeat this cycle 5 times in a row, 3 times a day.
2. Gaze stabilization exercises: These exercises involve focusing on a stationary object while moving the head in different directions. The goal is to train the eyes to stay fixed on a target while the head is moving.
3. Balance training: This can involve standing on one leg or on an unstable surface, such as a balance board, to improve balance and stability.
4. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT): This is a specialized form of physical therapy that is tailored to each individual’s specific vestibular disorder. It typically involves a combination of exercises and maneuvers to improve balance, reduce dizziness, and retrain the vestibular system.
5. Movement with breathing. This could be yoga, pilates, physiotherapy, Feldenkrais, Alexander technique or really any practice that focuses on specific movements that are done with breathing.: This low-impact form of exercise combines slow, flowing movements with deep breathing and meditation, and has been shown to be beneficial for improving balance and reducing dizziness.