Many people discuss vestibular and balance training as interchangeable practices. The term vestibular refers to the space in your head that is known as the inner ear. While there are many common links between them, physical therapists know that these two types of training are different from each other.

What is the difference between vestibular and balance training?

Vestibular and balance training are different because they target different issues. They’re often used interchangeably because these two therapy types are often used together. Vestibular training is specifically designed to treat dizziness and vertigo caused by inner ear issues. 

However, this type of training isn’t intended to treat issues that don’t revolve around the inner ear or vestibular system. This means that it’s not useful for musculoskeletal disorders, like arthritis, that can cause people to lose their balance. Balance training is specifically designed to tackle such disorders. 

Vestibular and balance training can help treat many issues

One of the biggest benefits of vestibular and balance training is that these techniques can help treat so many different issues. Vestibular disorders are often caused by inner ear issues, which can result in vertigo, dizziness and loss of balance. Some of the vestibular disorders that our team sees on a regular basis include:

• Cholesteatoma — This condition is characterized by abnormal skin growth inside the inner ear.
• Concussions and head injuries — Injuries to the head can damage the part of the brain that controls your ability to balance. 
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) — This condition causes dizziness when the head is in certain positions.

While you may have inner ear issues if you have a balance disorder, other causes may include:

• Muscle imbalances or weaknesses
• Underdeveloped reflexes
• Poor posture
• Bad joints
• Physical disabilities

Our physical therapists can develop a vestibular and balance training plan designed to treat any of these issues and more. In turn, they can help you reduce symptoms like dizziness and vertigo. Our specialists can also use these techniques to help reduce your risk of falling and fall-related injuries. 

Continuum Wellness can assist you with vestibular and balance training

When you’re searching for physical therapy that can help you with your inner ear and/or balance issues, our team at Continuum Wellness can help. Our staff is trained and licensed to practice many types of physical therapy. 

We also offer free screenings that can help pinpoint the specific vestibular or balance issue you’re dealing with. Our therapists can also build you a personalized therapy plan intended to reduce your symptoms and improve your ability to balance. Additionally, we can help you get therapy from home thanks to our virtual care and at-home therapy services, and you don’t even need a doctor’s referral to begin using our services. 

Take the next step to start getting our help. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule your free screening.