Post-Surgical Vestibular Rehabilitation

1. Post-Surgical Vestibular Rehabilitation While Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is commonly known for treating dizziness and balance issues stemming from inner ear disorders like BPPV or vestibular neuritis, its role extends critically to the post-surgical period. Certain surgeries, particularly those involving the ear, brain, or even procedures that significantly impact the body's balance system, can lead to new or exacerbated vestibular symptoms. At Next Step Physiotherapy, we specialize in comprehensive post-surgical Vestibular physiotherapy Edmonton, guiding patients through a tailored recovery process to regain balance, reduce dizziness, and restore functional independence. Understanding Post-Surgical Vestibular Challenges Surgery can affect the vestibular system in several ways: Central Nervous System Involvement: Brain surgeries, particularly those near the cerebellum or brainstem, can disrupt the central processing of balance information. General Surgical Stress and Post-Operative Effects: Anesthesia, prolonged bed rest, pain medications, and the body's overall response to major surgery can temporarily impair balance and coordination, even if the vestibular system wasn't directly targeted. Changes in Proprioception and Vision: Orthopedic surgeries (e.g., hip or knee replacements) or surgeries affecting vision can indirectly impact balance, as these systems work closely with the vestibular system.

2. Patients often experience symptoms such as persistent dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness, disequilibrium, visual blurring with head movement (oscillopsia), and increased risk of falls. The Role of Post-Surgical Vestibular Rehabilitation The goal of post-surgical VRT is to help the brain compensate and adapt to any changes in vestibular function, allowing for optimal recovery. The brain has remarkable plasticity, meaning it can reorganize and adapt. VRT leverages this neuroplasticity. At Next Step Physiotherapy Edmonton, our specialized post-surgical VRT program includes: Thorough Initial Assessment: A detailed review of your surgical procedure, medical history, and current symptoms is conducted. We perform a comprehensive physical assessment, including tests of eye movements, balance, gait, positional testing, and evaluation of neck mobility and strength. This helps us understand the specific deficits caused or exacerbated by the surgery. Gaze Stabilization Exercises (Adaptation): Purpose: To retrain the Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex (VOR), which ensures clear vision during head movements. Surgeries affecting the inner ear or vestibular nerve can significantly impair this reflex. Exercises: These involve keeping your eyes fixed on a target while moving your head. The exercises gradually progressed in speed and complexity as your tolerance improves. Balance Training (Compensation and Substitution): Purpose: To improve your overall postural stability and reduce unsteadiness. This involves teaching the brain to rely more effectively on vision and somatosensation (body's sense of position) to compensate for any vestibular loss. Exercises: Progressing from static balance (standing on stable surfaces, then foam) to dynamic balance (walking heel-to-toe, walking with head turns, navigating uneven terrain). Exercises may involve reducing visual input (e.g., closing eyes) to challenge reliance on other senses. Habituation Exercises: Purpose: For patients who experience dizziness or nausea triggered by specific movements or visually busy environments.

3. Exercises: Controlled, repetitive exposure to the movements or visual stimuli that provoke symptoms, gradually desensitizing the brain's response. Gait Retraining: Purpose: To improve walking mechanics, speed, and safety, particularly if instability is affecting your ability to ambulate confidently. Exercises: Specific walking drills, often incorporating head movements or obstacle negotiation. Functional Mobility Training: Purpose: Integrating balance and gaze stability into daily activities, such as turning quickly, reaching for objects, or navigating stairs. Neck Mobility and Strength (if applicable): Surgeries, especially those involving the head or neck, can lead to neck stiffness or pain, which can contribute to dizziness. Addressing cervical issues is often an important part of the rehab. Education and Home Exercise Program (HEP): We empower you with a clear understanding of your condition and a customized HEP to practice consistently at home, which is vital for long-term success. At Next Step Physiotherapy Edmonton, we understand the unique challenges of post-surgical recovery. Our dedicated team provides a supportive environment and expert guidance, ensuring you regain your balance, reduce dizziness, and confidently return to your activities of daily living after surgery. If you or a loved one are experiencing vestibular symptoms after a surgical procedure, contact us for a comprehensive assessment. #vestibularphysiotherapyedmonton #vestibularphysiotherapy #vestibularphysiotherapynearme #vestibularphysiotherapy #physiotherapynearme #physiotherapyedmonton #physicaltherapynearme #physicaltherapy #nextstepphysiotherapyedmonton #physicaltherapist #physiotherapyclinic #physioclinicedmonton