The brain, inner ear, muscles, joints, central nervous system, senses and blood vessels/heart all work together for normal balance. These links are called the vestibular system. Sometimes a disease or injury can damage this system causing dizziness, vertigo, trouble with walking or balancing, and sometimes difficulty with hearing and vision.

## What causes a balance disorder?

Balance problems can occur for many reasons. Balance and dizziness problems are most often caused by inner ear conditions; additionally conditions like arthritis and mild sensory loss can create symptoms of dizziness as well.

## How are balance disorders treated?

Specialized exercises are crucial when treating a vestibular disorder. Occupational and physical therapists will evaluate the patient’s vestibular disorder symptoms and create an individualized treatment plan to improve balance and quality of life.



 

 ## Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

  department###  [Physical and Occupational Therapy](/departments/physical-and-occupational-therapy) 

 A department providing personalized PT/OT, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and sports rehab to support recovery and mobility, helping patients regain function, build strength… 

 

 

  department###  [Physical Therapy](/departments/physical-and-occupational-therapy/physical-therapy) 

 A program within the Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy providing physical therapy (physio) to help patients recover from injury, improve movement, and manage pain th… 

 

 

  department###  [Ear, Nose, and Throat (Otolaryngology)](/departments/ear-nose-and-throat-otolaryngology) 

 A department providing ear, nose, and throat care, including diagnosis and treatment for hearing loss, sinus problems, allergies, and voice and swallowing disorders using advanced… 

 

 

  department###  [Dizziness and Balance Center](/departments/ear-nose-and-throat-otolaryngology/dizziness-and-balance-center) 

 A center within the Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat (Otolaryngology) providing care from a vertigo specialist, including vestibular testing to diagnose and treat dizziness, ba…