Restoring Balance and Confidence: Understanding Vestibular Dysfunction and Rehabilitation

As we age, our risk of falling increases due to changes in balance, strength, and mobility. One common but often overlooked contributor is vestibular dysfunction—a problem affecting the inner ear’s balance system. The good news is that specialized rehabilitation programs can help patients regain stability, reduce their risk of falls , and regain confidence in their daily lives.

At MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, our Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program focuses on diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders through personalized, evidence-based therapy. Our goal is to help individuals manage symptoms, improve balance, and enhance overall quality of life.

Understanding the Vestibular System

The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, serves as the body’s balance center. It includes tiny structures — such as the semicircular canals and otolith organs — that detect head movements and positions. These structures send signals to the brain, which integrates this information with input from the eyes and muscles to maintain stability and orientation.

When the vestibular system functions properly, it allows us to walk, turn, and stand with ease. However, when disrupted, it can cause dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness, and difficulty maintaining balance, significantly impacting independence and quality of life.

Recognizing Symptoms and Common Causes

Vestibular dysfunction can present in many ways, including:

• Imbalance and unsteadiness – Feeling unstable, especially when walking or standing.
• Vertigo – A spinning sensation, often triggered by head movements.
• Dizziness – A general sense of lightheadedness or disorientation.
• Loss of balance – Difficulty maintaining posture, leading to falls or near-falls.

Even mild symptoms should not be ignored, as they may resemble other conditions such as cardiovascular or neurological issues.

Common causes include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Calcium crystals in the inner ear become displaced, triggering brief bouts of vertigo, which is the sensation of spinning.
• Ear Infections: Inflammation affecting inner ear function.
• Medication Side Effects: Certain medications, including some cardiac medications, can impact balance.
• Aging: Natural degeneration of the vestibular system over time.
• Neurological Conditions: Strokes, concussions, and migraines that disrupt balance processing.
• Lifestyle Factors: Stress, dehydration, alcohol use, and lack of sleep can worsen symptoms.

These issues can interfere with daily life, reducing mobility, independence, and emotional well-being. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to restoring confidence and preventing falls.

Personalized Rehabilitation for Better Balance

At MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, our Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program provides one-on-one, customized care. Our therapists receive specialized training in vestibular rehabilitation, allowing them to accurately assess and treat each patient’s unique symptoms and challenges.

A typical treatment plan may include:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Review of symptoms, medical history, and functional balance.
• Diagnostic Testing: Eye movement analysis, postural assessments, and motion evaluations.
• Targeted Therapy:
  • Gaze Stabilization Exercises to improve visual focus and reduce dizziness.
  • Balance Training to enhance coordination and prevent falls.
  • Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers for treating BPPV.
  • Strength and Coordination Exercises to improve mobility and stability.

Our goal is not only to address physical symptoms but also to support emotional well-being—helping patients regain confidence and independence in their daily activities.

Proactive Steps to Reduce Fall Risk

In addition to rehabilitation therapy, the following strategies can help reduce fall risk:

• Stay Active: Engage in strength and balance exercises.
• Maintain Proper Nutrition: Calcium and vitamin D have been shown to decrease the incidence of falls.
• Use Assistive Devices: Canes or walkers can provide added stability if needed.
• Create a Safe Home Environment: Remove tripping hazards, ensure good lighting, and install grab bars in bathrooms.

Take the First Step Toward Better Balance

If you or a loved one is experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or balance difficulties, don’t wait to seek help. The Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center offers specialized evaluation and treatment to improve stability, mobility, and overall well-being.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program at (714) 378-5095.

About Mitchell Tsurudome:

Mitchell Tsurudome graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychobiology from UCLA, and a Master’s in Physical Therapy from Azusa Pacific University. He achieved a Board Certification in Orthopedic Physical Therapy, then returned to Azusa Pacific, for his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. He has been a physical therapist for more than 18 years, pursuing his passion for rehabilitation, which began as a teenager watching his father recover from a stroke. He still recalls how valuable physical therapy was to his father’s recovery and return to daily life. While orthopedics is his specialty, he was exposed to cases of patients with vestibular disorders. Mitchell received more intensive training and education for Vestibular Rehabilitation. He is a key component to the success of Orange Coast’s Vestibular Rehabilitation Program providing competent and conscientious care and community outreach, including annual presentations about Balance and Fall Prevention.