Dizziness Clinic/Vestibular Rehab

Navigating Dizziness Diagnoses

Dizziness is one of the most common complaints brought to the attention of physicians. It can range from a modest nuisance to a debilitating disorder. Despite its frequency, finding a correct diagnosis and getting appropriate treatment can be a challenge for patients. To address this need, new and ongoing services are available at UR Medicine Otolaryngology for evaluation and treatment of patients with dizziness and balance disorders.

We understand there are several options in the Rochester area for balance testing; unfortunately, at most of these centers the patient is never seen by a physician, offered a diagnosis, or treated. Our mission is to provide a higher level of service for patients with vestibular disorders in the greater Rochester area who are understandably frustrated. Our outpatient clinic offers state-of-the-art testing services that employ the standard as well as new methods which we have introduced to the region. We are able to coordinate vestibular testing with other services, such as audiograms, which are available at the same convenient location.

If only diagnostic testing is needed, we are able to provide this service and send the referring physician the results through UR Medicine's electronic records system or by fax, usually within one business day. We realize many of our patients travel a great distance to see us and we make an effort to provide all the necessary services at one visit. If desired, patients can usually be seen and evaluated by one of our fellowship-trained neurotologists the same day testing is performed.

Vestibular Rehabilitation

Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of physical therapy used to treat vestibular disorders or symptoms, characterized by dizziness, vertigo, and trouble with balance, posture, and vision. These primary symptoms can result in secondary symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and lack of concentration. All symptoms of vestibular dysfunction can significantly decrease quality of life, introducing mental-emotional issues such as anxiety and depression, and greatly impair an individual, causing them to become more sedentary.

The goals of vestibular rehabilitation are to:

1. Enhance gaze stability
2. Improve postural stability (balance)
3. Reduce vertigo
4. Improve participation in daily life activities