Vestibular Neuritis
Vestibular neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, typically caused by a viral infection, resulting in sudden, severe vertigo that can last for days. Our specialized vestibular rehabilitation accelerates recovery and helps restore normal balance function.
Understanding Vestibular Neuritis
Sudden Onset Characteristics
- Acute Vertigo: Severe spinning sensation developing over hours
- No Hearing Loss: Unlike labyrinthitis, hearing is preserved
- Persistent Symptoms: Continuous vertigo for 1-3 days
- Gradual Improvement: Slow recovery over weeks to months
Associated Symptoms
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Head motion sensitivity
- Visual disturbances and difficulty focusing
- Fatigue and anxiety
Recovery Phases
Acute Phase (Days 1-3)
- Severe, continuous vertigo
- Significant nausea and vomiting
- Unable to walk without assistance
- Requires medical management
Sub-Acute Phase (Days 4-14)
- Vertigo subsiding but persistent imbalance
- Motion sensitivity developing
- Beginning to walk independently
- Starting rehabilitation exercises
Compensation Phase (Weeks 2-12)
- Balance improving gradually
- Residual motion sensitivity
- Fatigue with activity
- Progressive return to normal activities
Physiotherapy Treatment
Early Intervention
- Symptom Management: Strategies for acute phase
- Early Mobilization: Safe movement as tolerated
- Education: Understanding the condition and recovery process
- Medical Coordination: Working with healthcare team
Active Rehabilitation
Our evidence-based approach includes:
- VOR Training: Vestibulo-ocular reflex exercises
- Gaze Stabilization: Maintaining visual focus during movement
- Balance Exercises: Progressive standing and walking challenges
- Habituation Training: Reducing motion sensitivity
Advanced Recovery
- Dynamic Balance: Complex movement patterns
- Dual-Task Training: Combining cognitive and balance challenges
- Return to Sport/Work: Gradual activity progression
- Relapse Prevention: Long-term management strategies
Treatment Technologies
Diagnostic Assessment
- ICS Impulse testing for vestibular function
- Vesticam for eye movement analysis
- Balance and gait assessment
- Functional testing
Progress Monitoring
- Objective measurement of improvement
- Regular reassessment and program modification
- Documentation of recovery milestones
- Outcome tracking
Expected Outcomes
Short-Term (2-4 weeks)
- Reduced vertigo intensity
- Improved walking ability
- Better tolerance to head movement
- Decreased nausea
Long-Term (6-12 weeks)
- Return to normal daily activities
- Restored balance confidence
- Resolution of motion sensitivity
- Full functional recovery in most cases
Why Early Treatment Matters
- Accelerates natural compensation
- Prevents secondary problems
- Reduces anxiety and fear
- Improves overall recovery outcomes
- Minimizes long-term disability