Vestibular Problems After Ear Surgery

Ear surgeries, such as cochlear implant procedures, stapedectomy, or mastoidectomy, can sometimes lead to vestibular dysfunction, causing dizziness, imbalance, and vertigo. While these symptoms may improve over time, some individuals experience prolonged vestibular issues that affect their daily lives. Vestibular physiotherapy Edmonton at In Step Physiotherapy can help retrain the balance system, reduce dizziness, and restore confidence in movement.

 

Why Does Ear Surgery Affect Balance?

 

The vestibular system is located in the inner ear and is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial awareness. Ear surgeries, especially those involving the inner ear, can disrupt this system, symptoms such as:

 

✔ Dizziness and Vertigo – A spinning sensation or feeling off-balance.

✔ Unsteady Gait – Difficulty walking, especially on uneven surfaces.

✔ Nausea and Motion Sensitivity – Feeling sick when moving the head or body.

✔ Visual Disturbances – Difficulty focusing or sensitivity to light.

✔ Increased Fall Risk – A sense of instability when standing or walking.

 

If these symptoms persist, vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) can help retrain the brain to adapt and restore balance.

 

How Vestibular Physiotherapy Helps After Ear Surgery

At In Step Physiotherapy, we provide a personalized treatment plan to help patients recover from vestibular dysfunction. Our approach includes:

 

Balance and Gait Training

Ear surgery can affect how your body perceives movement. Balance exercises help improve stability, reduce dizziness, and prevent falls. Patients practice walking in different environments to regain confidence in daily activities.

 

Vestibular Adaptation Exercises

These exercises help the brain adjust to changes in the vestibular system by encouraging it to rely more on vision and proprioception (body awareness). Gradual exposure to head and eye movements helps reduce dizziness over time.

 

Canalith Repositioning for BPPV

Some patients develop benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) after ear surgery. If this occurs, our physiotherapists perform Epley or Semont maneuvers to reposition displaced inner ear crystals and relieve vertigo.

 

Visual-Vestibular Integration Therapy

Some patients experience difficulty focusing after surgery. Specialized eye-tracking exercises improve coordination between vision and movement, reducing symptoms like dizziness and blurry vision.

 

Habituation Therapy

For those who feel dizzy with specific movements, controlled exposure to triggering activities helps desensitize the vestibular system, allowing patients to move more freely without discomfort.

 

Why Choose In Step Physiotherapy in Edmonton?

✔ Experienced Vestibular Physiotherapists – Specializing in post-surgical dizziness and balance issues.

✔ Personalized Treatment Plans – Tailored to your specific needs and symptoms.

✔ Evidence-Based Therapy – Using proven techniques like vestibular adaptation and balance training.

✔ Compassionate Care – Helping you regain confidence in movement and daily life.


Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you’re experiencing vestibular problems after ear surgery, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. In Step Physiotherapy Edmonton offers specialized treatment to help you regain balance and improve your quality of life.

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March 17, 2025