42% of Americans experience dizziness or a head injury in their lifetime. Studies show early intervention is critical following a concussion or head injury. In fact, a recent study showed those who were evaluated within a week of injury recovered 20 days faster than those seen weeks later. If you have suffered from a head injury and are experiencing symptoms, you should book an appointment with a vestibular therapy specialist for an evaluation. These symptoms may include, but are not limited to:
- Headache
- Dizziness (including, but not limited to, a room spinning sensation, lightheadedness, imbalance, unsteadiness)
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound
- Difficulty focusing their eyes on something
- Double and/or blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating
- Excessive fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
It is important not to delay treatment. Early intervention allows the appropriate specialists to initiate the treatment that is best suited to your limitations. These treatments can minimize time spent away from work, recreation, and social activities, as well as decrease the likelihood of long-term symptoms. Vestibular Therapy is a specialized field of physical therapy used to treat disorders of the inner ear and post-concussive symptoms. These problems are often characterized by dizziness, balance difficulties, and visual impairments. A vestibular therapist will prescribe an exercise regimen to fit your needs, with treatments including gaze stabilization training, habituation and adaptation exercises, balance retraining, and soft tissue mobilization.
If you or someone you know has experienced a head injury, concussion or have any of the following symptoms, contact us today to get you back to being you!
Allison Dillenburg, PT, DPT