Balance is something many of us take for granted until it's compromised. At Southwest Balance, Dizziness & Ear Institute, we see firsthand how vestibular disorders can profoundly impact our patients' lives. As we approach Balance Awareness Week this September 15-21, 2024, we want to shed light on these often misunderstood conditions.

Vestibular disorders affect the inner ear and brain, disrupting the body's ability to process sensory information that controls balance and eye movements. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and visual disturbances. While common, vestibular disorders often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leaving many struggling with daily activities.

Common Vestibular Disorders

Some of the most prevalent vestibular disorders include:

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by specific head movements.
2. Meniere's Disease: Causes episodes of vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear fullness.
3. Vestibular Neuritis: An infection or inflammation of the vestibular nerve that can cause sudden, severe vertigo.
4. Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD): A chronic functional disorder causing non-spinning vertigo and unsteadiness.

The impact of these disorders extends beyond physical symptoms. Many patients experience anxiety, depression, and social isolation due to their unpredictable nature. This is why Balance Awareness Week is crucial - it helps educate the public and support those affected.

Advanced Vestibular Treatment® (AVT)

At our practice, we utilize Advanced Vestibular Treatment® (AVT) to diagnose and treat vestibular disorders. Unlike traditional methods that may miss up to 68% of vestibular disorders, our comprehensive approach achieves a 95% diagnostic sensitivity. We assess all ten peripheral vestibular end organs under both static and dynamic conditions, allowing us to create highly personalized treatment plans.

Our AVT focuses on integrating the vestibular ocular reflex (VOR), vestibulospinal reflex (VSR), and otolith functions. By combining physical exercises with optokinetic stimulation, we address both somatosensory and visual balance components. This advanced approach has shown remarkable results, with 93% of our patients reporting significant improvements after just six weeks of treatment.

The Importance of Balance Awareness Week

Balance Awareness Week serves as a reminder of the importance of vestibular health and the need for specialized care. It's an opportunity to recognize the challenges faced by those with balance disorders and to highlight the advancements in diagnosis and treatment.

Taking Action for Your Balance Health

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of a vestibular disorder, don't wait to seek help. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. This Balance Awareness Week, we encourage you to take proactive steps for your vestibular health.

Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with one of our experienced audiologists at Southwest Balance, Dizziness & Ear Institute. Our team is committed to providing personalized care using the latest diagnostic tools and treatment methods. Let's work together towards a balanced, vertigo-free life.