Vestibular neuritis is a condition that affects the vestibular nerve, dizziness, balance issues, and problems with coordination. Although it is more commonly diagnosed in adults, vestibular neuritis can also occur in children. Vestibular physiotherapy Edmonton At Next Step Physiotherapy , we offer specialized care for young patients dealing with this condition, focusing on gentle and effective therapies to help them regain balance and confidence.
Understanding Vestibular Neuritis in Children
Vestibular neuritis is typically caused by a viral infection that inflames the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for transmitting balance and spatial orientation information from the inner ear to the brain. This inflammation can disrupt these signals, dizziness, vertigo, unsteady gait, nausea, and difficulty focusing the eyes. In children, these symptoms can be particularly distressing and impact their ability to play, learn, and participate in daily activities.
Symptoms of Vestibular Neuritis in Children
The symptoms of vestibular neuritis in children can vary, but some common indicators include:
Dizziness or Vertigo: Children may describe the room spinning or feel unsteady on their feet.
Balance and Coordination Issues: Difficulty walking or standing, frequent falls, or an unsteady gait.
Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms often accompany dizziness or vertigo.
Difficulty with Visual Focus: Trouble tracking objects with their eyes or experiencing blurred vision.
Sensitivity to Motion: Feeling worse with head movements or certain positions.
If your child shows any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper assessment and diagnosis.
How Next Step Physiotherapy Treats Vestibular Neuritis in Children
At Next Step Physiotherapy, we take a child-friendly approach to treating vestibular neuritis, aiming to reduce symptoms and improve your child’s balance and coordination. Here are some of the key strategies we use:
Comprehensive Assessment
Our first step is to conduct a thorough evaluation of your child’s symptoms and balance function. We use simple, non-invasive tests to determine the severity of the vestibular dysfunction and how it is impacting their daily life. Understanding the specific challenges your child is facing allows us to create a personalized treatment plan.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is a series of exercises designed to help the brain adapt to the altered signals from the vestibular system. For children, these exercises are made engaging and fun to encourage participation. Activities may include:
Gaze Stabilization Exercises: Helping the child focus on a stationary object while moving their head, which improves eye coordination and reduces dizziness.
Balance and Coordination Training: Age-appropriate exercises that improve balance and spatial awareness, such as obstacle courses or balance games.
Habituation Exercises: Repeated exposure to specific movements that trigger symptoms, allowing the brain to gradually become desensitized.
Education and Home Exercises
We believe in empowering parents and children to continue their progress at home. Our physiotherapists will provide a set of home exercises tailored to your child’s needs. These exercises are simple and easy to incorporate into playtime, making the therapy more enjoyable and effective.
Gentle Manual Therapy
For some children, gentle manual therapy techniques may be used to alleviate muscle tension and improve head and neck mobility. This can be particularly helpful if your child has been compensating for their dizziness with abnormal postures.
Sensory Integration Therapy
In cases where vestibular neuritis has affected the child’s ability to process sensory information, we may incorporate sensory integration techniques. These activities help the child’s brain make better use of input from the body and environment, enhancing balance and motor skills.
Supporting Your Child’s Recovery
Dealing with vestibular neuritis can be challenging, but a supportive environment at home and school can make a significant difference. Encourage your child to take breaks if they feel overwhelmed and provide reassurance that their symptoms will improve with time and therapy. Our team at Next Step Physiotherapy will work closely with you to track progress and adjust treatment as needed.
When to Seek Help
If your child is experiencing persistent dizziness, unsteady balance, or difficulty with coordination, it’s important to address these symptoms promptly. Early intervention can prevent further complications and improve your child’s quality of life.
Contact Next Step Physiotherapy for Expert Pediatric Care
At Next Step Physiotherapy in Edmonton, we are committed to providing gentle, effective treatment for vestibular neuritis in children. Our child-friendly approach ensures that your little one feels safe and supported throughout their recovery. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and learn how we can help your child regain their balance and enjoy a happy, active life.
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