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Our highly skilled physiotherapists treat each client with compassion and dignity. The Atlantic Balance and Dizziness Centre is committed to address each client's needs completely and design a treatment program that is specific to them and their condition.
Vestibular Rehabilitation
Vestibular rehabilitation is a unique branch of physiotherapy that deals with the assessment and treatment of clients with dizziness and balance dysfunction related to disorders of the vestibular (inner ear) system, central nervous system or general deconditioning. The treatment helps to enhance the nerve pathways between the inner ear, the eyes, the brain and spinal cord by using specific techniques and exercises that combine eye and head movements and challenges to one's balance.
Motion Desensitization Training
People with vestibular dysfunction and often with concussion can have sensitivity to motion. Dizziness can be triggered by quick motion of the head or by objects moving in front of your eyes or in your periphery. Motion desensitization training involves gradual exposure to the movement you find provocative. With time the movements cause less dizziness and nausea. Here is a link to some helpful videos.
Nystagmus testing
We use an infrared goggle system to accurately identify specific vestibular dysfunctions including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuronitis and labyrinthitis. The vestibular system sends reflex signals to the muscles that control eye motion. If there is a dysfunction in the vestibular system then abnormal eye movements (nystagmus) can be a clear indicator of the problem. Our therapists are trained to identify the nystagmus and use this information to effectively treat the client. We can also use the information to track recovery of the system. The information can be recorded and forwarded to the family physician or specialist as required.
Falls Risk Assessment
Falls account for 27% of all injury-related hospital admissions and 79% of seniors injury-related hospitalizations, making this the leading cause of injury-related admissions for seniors. Along with personal suffering, loss of independence and lower quality of life, the cost of injuries to seniors to the health care system is enormous - approximately $1 billion annually. The highly trained therapists at the ABDC use reliable and valid testing methods to accurately identify those who are at an increased risk for falls and design a treatment program that can be measured over time to assess improvement.
Graduated Return to Work Programs
We are pleased to collaborate efforts with employers to ensure successful return to work through the establishment of graduated return to work programs. Client progress is monitored throughout the process and detailed communication is provided to the treating physician, employer or insurer to ensure an effective transition. We recognize the benefits of collaborative efforts with other health care providers to maximize benefit to the client.
Neurological Rehabilitation
People who have suffered from neurological conditions such as: traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's and stroke can also have problems with dizziness and balance. We can design a treatment program that can help improve balance and reduce dizziness, as well as, improve overall strength and conditioning. For those with significant balance impairment who have difficulty standing independently the treatment program will often include use of our BALANCE-Trainer. The client is held securely at the hips and legs allowing free movement of the trunk for stability training.
Balance Retraining
Balance is controlled through a complex relationship between the inner ear, the eyes, the brain and spinal cord. Certain conditions that affect the inner ear or central nervous system can limit your brain's ability to control balance. Balance retraining involves an assessment that objectively measures balance and highlights key areas needing improvement and the development of a comprehensive exercise program that helps improve the coordination between the inner ear, the eyes, the brain and spinal cord.
Custom Foot Orthotics
Our certified pedorthist will perform a biomechanical assessment to evaluate whether you need custom orthotics, orthopaedic footwear, shoe modifications or off the shelf products to achieve the desired outcome. Canadian Certified Pedorthists - C. Ped (C) are orthotic and orthopaedic footwear experts. Orthotics can help treat a variety of foot conditions as well as back, knee and hip pain.