CVT Vestibular Rehabilitation Techniques

Question 1

What is the primary goal of vestibular rehabilitation therapy?

Accepted Answer

Reduce dizziness and improve balance

Answer

The primary goal of vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is to alleviate symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, and unsteadiness, and to improve overall balance and functional independence in individuals with vestibular disorders. VRT achieves this by promoting central nervous system compensation, habituation, and adaptation through specific, targeted exercises. This helps the brain recalibrate and better process vestibular information.

Question 2

What type of exercise is commonly used to retrain gaze stability?

Accepted Answer

VOR exercises

Answer

VOR (Vestibulo-Ocular Reflex) exercises are a cornerstone of vestibular rehabilitation for retraining gaze stability. These exercises involve moving the head while keeping the eyes fixed on a stationary target (gaze stabilization exercises). This helps to improve the gain of the VOR, ensuring that eye movements accurately compensate for head movements, thereby stabilizing vision and reducing oscillopsia (bouncing vision).

Question 3

Which maneuver is effective for treating BPPV?

Accepted Answer

Epley maneuver

Answer

The Epley maneuver is a highly effective canalith repositioning procedure used to treat Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), particularly when the posterior semicircular canal is affected. It involves a specific sequence of head and body movements designed to move the dislodged otoconia (canaliths) out of the semicircular canal and back into the utricle, where they no longer trigger vertigo symptoms.

Question 4

Why are habituation exercises important in vestibular rehab?

Accepted Answer

They reduce sensitivity to motion

Answer

Habituation exercises in vestibular rehabilitation are designed to reduce the patient's sensitivity to specific movements or positions that provoke dizziness. By repeatedly exposing the patient to these provoking stimuli in a controlled manner, the central nervous system gradually learns to suppress the abnormal vestibular response. This process helps to decrease the intensity and frequency of symptoms over time.

Question 5

Which component is often assessed before beginning vestibular rehab?

Accepted Answer

Gait and balance

Answer

Before initiating vestibular rehabilitation, a comprehensive assessment of the patient's gait and balance is crucial. This assessment helps to identify specific deficits, quantify the severity of the balance impairment, and establish a baseline for measuring progress. It informs the therapist about the patient's fall risk and guides the selection of appropriate and safe exercises tailored to their individual needs.

(CVT) Certified Vestibular Therapist Practice Test

(CVT) Certified Vestibular Therapist Practice Test

CVT Vestibular Rehabilitation Techniques