What Vestibular Rehabilitation Actually Treats
Vestibular rehab covers more than vertigo. Here's a clear breakdown of what it treats — and how the assessment narrows down your case.
What it covers
Vestibular rehabilitation isn't a single technique — it's a category of care for problems with the inner-ear, brain, and visual systems that keep you oriented and balanced.
Five common reasons people come in
- BPPV — brief, intense vertigo with position changes. Often resolved in 1–3 visits with repositioning maneuvers.
- Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis recovery — after the initial illness, the brain often needs help re-calibrating.
- Persistent dizziness after concussion — vestibular and ocular systems are commonly affected.
- Motion sensitivity and visual-motion intolerance — busy environments, scrolling, driving feel overwhelming.
- Falls and balance concerns in older adults — targeted vestibular and balance training reduces fall risk.
How assessment narrows the case
The system causing your symptoms changes the plan. Vertigo with specific head positions points to BPPV. Dizziness with eye movement points to oculomotor and vestibular pathways. Neck-driven dizziness behaves differently from inner-ear dizziness. Assessment isolates the driver so the plan targets it.
What treatment looks like
Repositioning maneuvers (BPPV), gaze stabilization (VOR) exercises, habituation training for motion sensitivity, balance and gait training, and cervical work where relevant. Some habituation exercises temporarily provoke mild symptoms — that's how the brain learns to tolerate input.
Related care
Treatment for vertigo, dizziness, balance issues, and vestibular dysfunction.
Structured care for concussion recovery, symptom management, and return to activity.
BPPV, vestibular neuritis, and post-concussion dizziness — assessed and treated.
Mild traumatic brain injury needing structured recovery — not just rest.
Have a question this didn't answer?
Book an assessment with an AIM clinician — direct billing and WCB/MVA support included.