How Long Does It Take to See Results from Vestibular Rehabilitation?

Do you have trouble standing or sitting without feeling dizzy? Do you feel as though the room or you are spinning even when you are stationary? 

If you experience either of these, you may have problems with your vestibular system. This system is an interconnection between your inner ear and brain, sending signals about your position and movement to help you stay steady.

Fortunately, vestibular rehabilitation can help improve dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues. However, how long does it take to feel better?

Some people feel better after just a few sessions, while others may need several weeks or months to improve. The duration of your vestibular rehabilitation will depend on many factors, including the severity of your symptoms and how well you follow your treatment plan.

In this article, we will explain how vestibular therapy in Edmonton works, what affects recovery time, and how long it usually takes to see results.

What Affects Recovery Time in Vestibular Physiotherapy?

Recovery time in vestibular physiotherapy varies for everyone. You may experience relief within a few days, and sometimes, it may take months. Here are some factors that affect the rate of recovery in vestibular physiotherapy;

1. Type of Balance Problem

The type of balance problem significantly impacts your rate of recovery. For instance, if you have severe issues like vestibular neuritis or Meniere’s disease, your rehabilitation may take weeks or months. On the other hand, if you are suffering from A condition like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), you may see an improvement within a few treatment sessions.

2. Severity of Symptoms

Mild balance symptoms are expected to resolve faster than severe symptoms. If you have severe balance issues, it may take longer to retrain your brain and body.

3. Your Age and Overall Health

With age, the body is prone to health issues, including balance problems. This can influence the rate of recovery during vestibular physiotherapy. Generally, younger and healthier people tend to recover faster.

4. Exercise Frequency

Your vestibular physiotherapy plan will include exercises to help address your condition, provide relief, and prevent a recurrence. However, you can only get better if you follow your exercise regimen as recommended by your therapist. Skipping sessions or not following your therapist’s advice can slow down recovery.

5. Your Lifestyle and Activity Level

A sedentary lifestyle can affect your rate of recovery due to lack of movement. Coupled with balance issues, you may be scared to walk or move because you don’t want to fall. However, this is counterintuitive.

Staying active is the best way to speed up your progress. Moving around and safely challenging your balance, can help your brain learn and adjust faster. 

How Long Does It Take to Recover?

As mentioned earlier, the rate of recovery during vestibular physiotherapy depends on the condition being treated. Let’s look at these conditions and how long they typically take to improve;

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

BPPV occurs when tiny crystals in the inner ear move out of their place. These crystals help your brain recognize your body’s position in space, helping you maintain balance and a sense of gravity.

Treatment for BPPV usually involves repositioning techniques like the Epley maneuver. This maneuver focuses on special head movements to reposition the crystals. You should feel better within 1 - 3 sessions. Generally, recovery time from BPPV ranges from a few days to 2 weeks. 

2. Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis

Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis is the inflammation of the inner ear or the nerves connecting the inner ear to the brain. This condition is usually triggered by an infection like the flu or common cold. 

Vestibular rehabilitation for this condition may include balance exercises to help retrain your brain to adjust to changes in the inner ear. Usually, the recovery can take between 4 and 12 weeks. 

3. Ménière’s Disease 

Meniere’s disease is an inner ear disorder that causes dizziness, ear pressure, spinning sensation, and hearing problems. Usually, this condition starts in one ear and may later involve both ears. 

Vestibular therapy for Meniere’s disease may include several treatment techniques like balance training, gaze stabilization, and habituation exercises. However, it is important to note that recovery time varies because the symptoms of this disease happen in episodes. Also, the severity of your symptoms and your response to treatment will affect the therapy’s duration.

Therapy for Meniere’s disease can take between 6 to 12 weeks, but you should start seeing improvements within the first few weeks. 

4. Motion Sensitivity

You may experience dizziness, nausea, and imbalance when you move or see things moving. When you feel dizzy when moving your head or changing position, you may have motion sensitivity. Usually, this condition occurs when your visual system and Vestibular system are sending conflicting signals about movement to your brain. 

Vestibular physiotherapy for motion sensitivity may include habituation and gaze stabilization exercises. You should see improvement within the first few weeks of treatment. However, it may take between 6 and 12 weeks to see full improvement. 

What to Expect During Recovery from Vestibular Disorders

This section explores the treatment and recovery timeline during vestibular physiotherapy;

Early Stage (First Few Sessions)

During this stage, your vestibular physiotherapist will test your balance and create a treatment plan. The plan may include exercises that will help your eyes and body work together. At first, it may seem like the exercises are making your symptoms worse. But this is normal. It means your brain is learning and adapting to the motions.

Middle Stage (2–6 Weeks)

During this stage, you should notice significant improvements. You will start noticing fewer dizzy spells and have improved balance. Your exercises during this stage may also become more challenging to improve your strength and balance. Also, the middle stage helps you feel more comfortable doing your daily activities without the fear of falling.

Long-Term Results (6 Weeks to Several Months)

Long-term treatment with vestibular physiotherapy improves your overall confidence in doing your daily activities without fear of falling. During this stage, most of your symptoms should be resolved or well-controlled. However, depending on your condition, you may need occasional therapy sessions to maintain your progress. Your therapist may also recommend occasional exercises to help you maintain your results.

How to Speed Up Recovery

Besides your in-clinic sessions, you can speed up your recovery by following these tips;

1. Follow Your Therapist’s Advice

Attend all your therapy sessions and do your home exercises every day. Consistent treatment is crucial to faster recovery.

2. Keep Moving

Even if you feel dizzy when you move slightly, avoid lying down all day. Gentle movements can help your brain adjust. You can try stretching, walking, and other light activities recommended by your therapist to improve your balance. 

3. Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Stress can make dizziness worse. You can try relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation to relieve stress and anxiety.

4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Dehydration can worsen your dizziness. Drink enough water daily and eat healthy meals to support your recovery.

5. Be Patient and Stay Positive

Recovery takes time, but every small improvement is a step forward. Keep practising, and don’t get discouraged!

Final Thoughts

Vestibular Physiotherapy can help you regain your balance and reduce dizziness, but recovery time depends on your condition, symptoms, and commitment to therapy. Some people feel better in a few days, while others may need several weeks or months.

If you are experiencing dizziness or balance problems, don't wait! 

Balance Therapy Edmonton can help you regain confidence and enjoy life without feeling unsteady. Schedule an appointment with a Vestibular Therapy Edmonton expert today and start your journey to better balance!