Balance Disorders Program
More than two million people visit their doctor each year complaining of dizziness or vertigo. These different symptoms represent balance problems. Your doctor will try to determine the underlying cause.
Our sense of balance is maintained by a complex interaction of the inner ear, the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), eyes, joints, sensor receptors, and muscles. If a problem with any part of the balance system occurs, one or two symptoms may appear: dizziness or vertigo.
Because there are many possible causes of vertigo and dizziness, it is necessary for your doctor to perform a medical evaluation to determine a diagnosis whenever possible.
To assist physicians, Rehabilitation Services of Southcoast Hospitals Group now offers a Balance Disorders Program.
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Some people describe a dizziness problem by saying they feel dizzy, lightheaded, floating, woozy, unsteady or have a sense of dysequilibrium.
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A few people describe their balance problem by using the word vertigo, which comes from the Latin verb "to turn." They often say that they or their surroundings are turning or spinning. Vertigo is usually due to an inner ear problem.
Balance problems are symptoms and not a medical diagnosis. It's necessary for a doctor to perform a medical evaluation. A careful history of your symptoms is most helpful in finding the cause of your problem.
The Balance Disorders Program offers comprehensive diagnostic tests as well as treatment in an outpatient setting. Your referring physician will determine the specific test performed.
Audiological Evaluation & Treatment
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Since the auditory mechanism is responsible for hearing and balance, a series of tests looking at these two areas are performed. The series of tests begin with a basic hearing assessment.
Another common test is an ENG (Electronystagmography) in which electrodes taped near the eyes carefully monitor eye movements. A portion of this test stimulates part of the balance system of the inner ear.
Physical Therapy Evaluation: A physical therapy evaluation is often performed along with Audiology testing. If indicated by the evaluation results, the physical therapist will develop an individual exercise and balance program to meet your needs.
Depending on your diagnosis, Balance Rehabilitation Therapy is a treatment method that can alleviate balance problems.
Your physician may order some or all of these tests and others, depending on your history and symptoms. Each contributes distinct, specific information to the overall picture.
Follow Up Care: Once a diagnosis is determined, a range of treatments are available that have been proven safe and effective in controlling disorders with underlying dizziness and vertigo.
Surgery is rarely necessary, but may be considered in some cases. Follow-up visits and repeat testing are important if your symptoms persist or change in any way.
Notify your physician if you experience increased headaches, change in vision, slurring of speech, weakness, or any loss of consciousness.
Don't let a balance problem interfere with your life and career. Call your doctor to see if the Southcoast Balance Disorders Program is right for you.
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Charlton Memorial Hospital
363 Highland Avenue
Fall River, MA 02740
508-679-7135
St. Luke's Hospital
101 Page Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-961-5460
Tobey Hospital
One Recovery Road
Wareham, MA 02571
508-291-3729
Other Southcoast Rehab Services
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