Are you dizzy? Are you out of balance when walking? Here is the solution! (Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy)

Do you also feel like the whole world is spinning around you when you suddenly stand up, roll over in bed, or turn your head a little too quickly? Do you feel off-balance when you walk, or you feel like you're going to fall? Has this made it difficult for you to do your daily activities? Sometimes this dizziness can be accompanied by a headache and a feeling of being unwell. This is really uncomfortable. But don't worry, there is a special treatment that can help with this condition. That's what we're talking about today.

What is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?

This may sound like a long name, but it's actually quite simple. Simply put, it's a series of exercises that help you control your dizziness and imbalance. It's not just any exercise. It's a scientifically designed exercise that retrains your brain and body's balance systems. It's like teaching your brain to balance itself again. It takes a while to get used to, but it can make a big difference in your life.

Who needs this treatment?

There are various medical conditions that can cause dizziness and loss of balance. This treatment is useful in many such cases. Imagine if your doctor told you that you have such a medical condition, it is very worth asking him about this treatment.

How does this actually work? It's amazing, isn't it?

Dizziness and balance are like two sides of the same coin. To understand how this treatment works, let's first take a simple look at how our body maintains balance.

First, let's understand this dizziness.

Dizziness is a condition in which our brain becomes confused. Think about it, our brain is constantly 'calculating' where we are and how our body is positioned relative to our surroundings. It's like a GPS. This is what we call ``spatial orientation''. When something disrupts this system, the signals coming to the brain get mixed up. That's when we feel dizzy, dizzy, and off-balance.

And what about the balance?

Our body's balance is not just one thing. It's a combination of three main systems. Our brain (central nervous system) collects and analyzes the information coming from these three to keep the body upright.

1. The vestibular labyrinth: This is the most important part. This small system inside our ear is like an air bubble inside a water bottle. When we turn our heads, look up, or look down, a fluid inside this system moves and tells the brain, "Your head is now turned to the right" or "It's now straight."

2. Vision: This is very simple. Our eyes look at the things around us and tell the brain where we are and whether we are moving or not. This is why we feel off balance in the dark.

3. Body Sensors (Skin, Joints, Muscles): There are tiny sensors all over our bodies, especially in our feet, joints, and muscles. These tell the brain whether we are standing, sitting, or walking. Imagine that you are standing and leaning back a little. Then, the pressure on your feet and ankles sends a signal to the brain, saying, "You are not straight now, you are leaning back. Before you fall, lean forward."

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) works by re-establishing the connection between these systems. It trains the brain to use other systems (eyes and body sensors) better to compensate for the weakened system. Over time, the brain adapts to this new way of thinking and manages dizziness and loss of balance.

What happens before and during treatment?

Before starting this treatment, you need to find out exactly what your problem is.

• Testing: Your doctor may refer you to an audiologist, who will perform a series of tests to check your hearing and balance, such as a vestibular test battery. A physical therapist will also check your balance, gait, and strength in your arms and legs.
• During treatment: After these tests, the physiotherapist will prepare a set of exercises that are specific to you. Not everyone is given the same set of exercises. The exercises are selected according to your problem. During treatment, you will be taught the correct way to do these exercises. You should also do these at home. There are mainly these types of exercises:
• Exercises that control eye movements: Things like keeping your attention in one place and turning your head.
• Balance retraining: Practicing standing and walking on different surfaces.
• Stretching and strengthening exercises: Exercises that increase the strength and flexibility of the body.

How long does this treatment take?

It varies depending on your situation. The time frame depends on what is causing your dizziness and how you respond to treatment.

• Most people go about 6 or 8 times a week.
• Some people (especially for conditions like BPPV) may experience complete relief in 1 or 2 sessions .
• Others may need to continue treatment and exercises at home for several months. The most important thing is to do the exercises at home exactly as instructed.

What are the benefits of this treatment?

Research has proven that this treatment method is very successful.

Are there any risks in this?

There are almost no risks to the body in this treatment. It is very safe. But there is one thing. Sometimes this treatment may not solve your problems 100%. Especially if you do not do the exercises given at home exactly, you may not get the expected results. Therefore, it is very important to do this with dedication.

When should I see the doctor again?

This treatment usually does not cause any major problems. However, if you experience any of the symptoms below while you are exercising at home, or if they get worse, call your doctor immediately.

Dizziness and loss of balance are really uncomfortable. It can be a big obstacle in our daily lives. But you don't have to live with it. Through this treatment method called `(Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy)`, you can regain your control. If you have these symptoms, don't be afraid and don't delay, talk to your doctor . He will examine you, decide if this is a suitable treatment for you, and refer you to a specialist if necessary.