Vestibular

Our service

Vestibular Physiotherapists assess problems related to inner ear dysfunction causing problems such as falls, dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance. They use a variety of treatment modalities and aim to optimise a person’s function, balance, and gaze stability. We work closely with Audiologists, ENT Specialists and Neurologists.

The assessment process

To consider your diagnosis, the assessment process includes the use of various testing techniques including:

• Using goggles to assess your eye movements in the dark
• Goggles used to measure the speed of your eye movements in relation to your head
• Balance tests
• Walking tests
• Coordination tests
• Eye movement assessments
• Questionnaires

You can expect your Initial assessment to go for up to or around 90 minutes to complete the assessments; provide education on our findings and if possible, some treatment to get you started.

What to bring

• Comfortable clothes
• Comfortable shoes for walking and balance tests
• Glasses for reading and hearing aids
• Any previous hearing tests or scans you feel might be relevant
• Any anti-nausea medications you have been prescribed if you think you may need it following our assessments
• Many people like to bring someone to bring them to and from the appointment in case they feel dizzy afterwards

Vestibular Balance and Rehabilitation Therapy

For some conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Vestibular Physiotherapists complete specific positional treatment manoeuvres however much of the therapy is in the form of exercise prescription to retrain reflexes, reduce sensitivity to movement or improve balance and walking. There are several conditions we treat including Meniere’s disease, Vestibular Schwannoma, Vestibular Neuritis/Labyrinthitis, Vestibular Migraine, Unilateral and Bilateral vestibular weakness.

How to access this service

To access this service you must reside within the Metro North Hospital and Health Service (MNHHS) catchment area or one of our outreach service areas. Your GP or medical practitioner will need to send a referral letter to the hospital.

You will receive an appointment offer letter and be advised on what to do next.

Please note, referrals are triaged and appointments will be provided to the most urgent cases first.