vestibularPT.com

Nearly 40% of adults will experience vertigo at least once in their lives, and over 50% of adults over age 65 years of age will experience vertigo that can be treated and resolved with a simple treatment. 

Dizziness and vestibular conditions become increasingly more common in the aging population, leading to falls, fear of movement, decreased social interactions, and ultimately loss of independence. There are many causes of dizziness, which is why skill development in differential diagnosis is pertinent to the successful treatment of patients with dizziness.

This course offers an introduction to vestibular rehab to include anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of central and peripheral origin. Differential diagnosis tests and measures will be applied to differentiate central and peripheral origin of dizziness. 

A significant portion of the course will be in lab-based experience with assessment and treatment techniques for differential diagnosis, BPPV and vestibular hypofunction, and application of vestibular rehab treatment techniques for dizziness of central and cervicogenic origin will be introduced. 

Specific emphasis will be placed on understanding of peripheral and central causes of dizziness, including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular hypofunction, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, and multisensory dizziness. 

Principles of assessment and differential diagnosis will improve the clinician’s efficiency in examination and translation of exam findings into the development of an effective, evidence-based treatment plan.

Approved by WI Chapter of the APTA and AOTA for 10 Contact Hours.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

1. Explain how the visual, vestibular and somatosensory systems function together to maintain balance. 
2. Describe the role of the cerebellum in the function of balance and control of vision as it contributes to safety with daily activities.
3. Name the components of the HINTS exam and apply them to differential diagnosis.
4. Identify key exam procedures and findings to differentiate dizziness of central and peripheral origin.
5. List contraindications for BPPV positional testing.
6. Describe testing procedure, findings and treatment of posterior canal BPPV.
7. Interpret the findings of the Roll test and Bow and Lean test in diagnosing horizontal canal BPPV.
8. Name the 4 components of vestibular rehab and their role in restoring balance and vision to restore function in activities of daily living.
    

Focus on Function Physical Therapy, PC is an AOTA Approved Provider of professional development. Course approval ID# 8879. This hybrid course is offered at 10 contact hours, intermediate educational level, foundational knowledge. The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.