This intensive two-day live course comprehensively introduces vestibular rehabilitation for physical therapists and assistants. Whether you're a beginner with no prior experience or an advanced clinician seeking a refresher or a renewed perspective, this course will equip you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to effectively evaluate and treat patients with dizziness and balance disorders.

What You Will Learn:

• Fundamentals of the Balance System: Gain a solid understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the vestibular system, including the vestibular organs, visual system, and proprioceptive inputs. Explore how these systems interact to maintain balance and how dysfunction in these areas can lead to dizziness and balance problems.

• Recognizing Vestibular Pathology: Learn about the pathology of common vestibular disorders, including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, and Meniere's disease. You will also learn to differentiate between peripheral and central vestibular disorders and understand their impact on patients' function.

• Comprehensive Patient Evaluation: Master a systematic approach to evaluating patients with dizziness and balance problems. This includes hands-on training in:

• Oculomotor Testing: Assess eye movements to identify nystagmus and other ocular motor abnormalities.

• Positional Testing: Perform Dix-Hallpike and other positional maneuvers to diagnose BPPV.

• Balance Assessments: Utilize standardized tests and clinical observation to evaluate static and dynamic balance.

• Core Treatment Techniques: Develop proficiency in essential vestibular rehabilitation techniques, including:

• Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Learn and practice Epley and Semont maneuvers for treating BPPV in all canals (posterior, anterior, and horizontal).

• Gaze Stabilization Exercises: Apply techniques to improve gaze stability and reduce dizziness during head movement.

• Habituation Exercises: Understand the principles of habituation and implement exercises to reduce dizziness triggered by specific movements or environments.

• Balance Retraining Exercises: Utilize a variety of exercises to improve static and dynamic balance, coordination, and proprioception.

• The FYZICAL Balance Paradigm: Discover this valuable framework for exercise prescription and progression in vestibular rehabilitation. Learn to:

• Identify sensory mismatch and select appropriate sensory strategies.

• Categorize exercises based on specific impairments.

• Progress exercises safely and effectively to challenge patients.

Hands-On Learning:

This course emphasizes active learning through hands-on labs and interactive case studies. You can practice evaluation and treatment techniques with guidance from experienced instructors.

Who Should Attend:

This course is designed for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants at all levels of experience who want to:

• Gain a solid foundation in vestibular rehabilitation.

• Develop confidence in evaluating and treating patients with dizziness and balance disorders.

• Expand their clinical skillset to provide comprehensive care for a broader range of patients.