Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation

For Dizziness, Fall Prevention, and Improved Balance

Balance is influenced by three major systems: visual, somatosensory (body position), and vestibular

Unsteadiness and falls may occur with balance impairments or because of dysfunction in the vestibular system resulting in vertigo or spinning

Our goal at THE CYPRESS CENTER is to assist the patient to return to or maintain maximum function. In addition to our one-on-one sessions with our specialist, we offer group balance & proprioception classes.

What is the Vestibular System?

  • The vestibular system helps maintain equilibrium and gives information about head position
  • It is located in the inner ear and made up of membranous canals
  • A dysfunction of this system may cause vertigo (spinning), nausea, disequilibrium, poor concentration

A person may complain about vertigo with:

  • Rolling in bed
  • Quick head turns with daily activity
  • Bending over
  • Washing hair in the shower

Possible causes of vestibular dysfunction:

  • Debris (crystals) from the inner ear can dislodge, causing positional vertigo (BPPV)
  • Certain medications
  • Viral infections
  • Head injury, aging/degeneration

Meet our Vestibular Specialist, Ann Marraccinni, P.T., MSPT

Ann has practiced physical therapy in a variety of settings for more than 20 years. She received her Master's Degree from Washington State University School of Medicine in St. Louis and has taken advanced coursework in vestibular and balance disorders. She is a member of VEDA (Vestibular Disorders Association) and has extensive training in orthopedic manual therapy.