Vestibular rehabilitation is a type of physical therapy that uses exercises to reduce dizziness and improve balance.

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy helps retrain your brain to process balance signals correctly when your inner ear is not working as it should.

Your vestibular system, found in the inner ear, helps control balance and eye movement. Vestibular rehabilitation uses simple exercises to help your eyes, head, and body work better together.

A doctor will typically suggest this therapy if:

  • you have vertigo
  • you have inner ear problems
  • feel unsteady after being sick or injured
  • have a concussion or stroke

Learn more about how vestibular rehabilitation works, when it’s used, what to expect during a session, and how it can help you feel better over time.

Damage to this system can make you feel dizzy, off-balance, or like the room is spinning (vertigo). A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to help your brain adjust.

These may include:

  • Gaze stabilization: These exercises help your eyes stay focused while your head moves, so your vision stays steady.
  • Balance training: Aims to improve steadiness and reduce falls by training your balance, vision, and your body’s ability to sense movement and position.
  • Habituation: Helps reduce dizziness by gradually exposing you to movements or visuals that usually trigger symptoms.
  • Functional mobility: These exercises help you move safely and confidently during daily tasks like walking, bending, or turning.

The goal is to reduce symptoms like spinning, swaying, or lightheadedness and help you move safely and comfortably.

Your doctor may recommend vestibular rehabilitation if you’re experiencing:

Several conditions can cause these symptoms, including:

Vestibular rehabilitation can also support recovery after inner ear surgery or certain neurological events like stroke.

If you’re experiencing ongoing dizziness, balance problems, or vertigo, consider talking with a healthcare professional to see if vestibular rehabilitation could help.

During your first vestibular rehabilitation session, your physical therapist will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries.

They’ll also perform a physical exam to check how you walk, stand, and move your head, and may perform certain tests to check your balance, coordination, and eye movements.

From there, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, triggers, and goals.

Your sessions may include:

  • balance exercises
  • habituation routines
  • eye movement training (gaze stabilization)
  • techniques to improve walking or reduce fall risk

Your therapist will also show you how to do exercises at home and give you tips to manage your symptoms between sessions.

If you’re not sure what to expect or feel nervous about starting, ask your physical therapist or clinic to walk you through the process before your first visit.

Vestibular rehabilitation provides several benefits for people experiencing dizziness, balance problems, or visual disturbances.

A 2025 study shows that engaging in vestibular rehab can:

  • Improve balance and steadiness, lowering your risk of falling.
  • Reduce dizziness and vertigo by helping your brain adjust to movement and regain control.
  • Help your eyes stay focused while your head moves, making your vision clearer.
  • Increase your confidence in daily activities, so you can move more safely and comfortably.

Another recent study also shows that vestibular rehabilitation improves quality of life and eases symptoms in people with chronic dizziness and balance problems, including those with PPPD.

Research shows that vestibular rehabilitation therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated. But some people may feel worse before they feel better, especially at the start of treatment.

VRT can temporarily increase symptoms such as:

These effects are usually a sign that your brain is adjusting to new movements. They often improve with time as your body adapts.

However, if any symptoms feel too intense or uncomfortable, talk with a healthcare professional. They can adjust your plan to keep things safe and manageable.

Vestibular rehabilitation is a safe and effective way to treat dizziness, balance problems, and other symptoms linked to vestibular disorders.

With a personalized exercise plan, many people notice better balance, less dizziness, and an overall improvement in quality of life.

If you’re experiencing persistent dizziness or balance problems, consider talking with a healthcare professional to see whether vestibular rehabilitation could help.