Dizziness is one of the most common complaints adults report to physicians, accounting for 5-10 percents of visits. The prevalence of dizziness and balance problems increase with age. These problems affect 40 percent of the people over age 40 and are the number one reason for a physician visit for people greater than the age of 65.*

Symptoms
The symptoms of vestibular dysfunction include:

	Dizziness
	Vertigo
	Spinning sensations
	Feeling of nausea and/or vomiting
	Lightheadedness
	Falls
	Difficulty with walking in dark or dim lighting
	Ringing in the ears

Causes
Accidents, falls and many different disease processes can cause vestibular dysfunction.  However, sometimes a cause may not be determined.  Incidents of vestibular problems are more common as one ages.

Treatment
Vestibular dysfunction is commonly treated with medications and in severe cases, surgical procedures are performed.  A physical therapy approach that is gaining increased recognition because of its effectiveness is vestibular rehabilitation.

One of the most common causes of vertigo, benign paroxysnal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a biomechanical problem that is often easily treated in a single session.

NMMC Outpatient Rehabilitation Center also uses the NeuroCom Balance Manager for effective assessment and treatment of chronic dizziness and balance disorders.

Referrals
A physician or nurse practitioner's referral for physical therapy can be obtained from your physician or nurse practitioner.

For More Information
For additional information about this program or related rehabilitation services, call (662)377-7215 or 1800-THE-DESK (1-800-843-3375).

Location
North Mississippi Medical Center
Longtown Medical Park
Outpatient Rehabilitation Center
4381 South Eason Boulevard
Tupelo, MS 38801

* Vestibular Rehabilitation, Susan J. Herdman, F.A. Davis, Philadelphia, 1994 pg XI

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