Vestibular Physiotherapy

Clinical Physiotherapy - In Person and Virtual Sessions

WHAT IS VESTIBULAR PHYSIOTHERAPY?

After an injury to the vestibular system occurs, the central nervous system begins to compensate for reduced function in the inner ear. This can lead to balance problems and vertigo. Vestibular therapy is an exercise-based treatment program that can improve balance and reduce problems related to dizziness or vertigo. This effective treatment has been shown to significantly decrease or eliminate problems related to balance and help patients resume regular activities.

A specific vestibular rehab program is to be completed by the patient at home. Peripheral vestibular dysfunction has been shown to respond well to progressive balance retraining, specific stretching, and strengthening techniques.

IS VESTIBULAR THERAPY RIGHT FOR YOU?

Vestibular therapy is best suited for patients diagnosed with dizziness, balance issues, vertigo, migraines, BPPV, or Meniere’s syndrome. Other candidates can include patients who have suffered strokes or brain injuries, or people who frequently fall.

Benefits of vestibular therapy include:

• Decreased dizziness symptoms

• Improved focus and concentration

• Improved neck mobility

• Decreased nausea

• Improved balance while standing or sitting

• Decrease risk of falling

• Increased confidence in day-to-day activities

HOW IT WORKS

Vestibular therapy uses a combination of exercise routines to improve patient balance and reduce the effects of dizziness or vertigo. Exercises are mandated at regular intervals, often 2-3 times per day. At first, it may seem that the exercises make your symptoms worse, but with practice and consistency, these symptoms should decrease and improve. All vestibular treatment plans are customized to meet the needs of the patient and are often paired with at-home programs to improve results.

WHAT TO EXPECT

An initial assessment will be completed and therapy goals will be jointly set with your therapist. Typically (depending on the reason for visit) you will be seen weekly for 3-4 sessions, then check-ins every 4-6 weeks thereon, until goals are met. Every client is different and your program will be designed with your recovery in mind. Exercises may include vision stability training, posture training, walking exercises, stretching, and balance retraining. In the case of BBPV, manual therapy will be needed to guide the patient’s head into various positions to move calcium crystals.

HOW TO PREPARE

Prior to the session, please read and sign the consent form emailed out to you. Whenever starting a new physiotherapy program, bring a list of any medications to your first appointment, along with any relevant X-rays and MRIs. If you’re experiencing pain symptoms beforehand, make a note of them and be sure to tell your therapist ahead of time.

Masks are manditory for in-person treatment, in compliance with BC's mask mandate. Please read our Covid-19 procedures for more information.

POST-SESSION

It’s important to stay consistent with your vestibular practice even while at home. Exercises and advice will be emailed to you directly from your therapist. If you have any additional questions, you can contact them directly via email.

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FEES

To book, please select Clinical Physiotherapy from our online booking platform. To maximize your session’s value, and take advantage of our diverse treatment options, fees are inclusive of all treatments used during your session. Your physiotherapist will work with you to help assess which treatments will be most beneficial during your visit.

VanCity Physio offers direct billing.

I wanted to take a moment to write you a note of gratitude for your time and efforts during my recovery. Your attitude, depth of knowledge, and commitment really helped me through one of the roughest times in my life.

— M. Goddard

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Vancity Physio has played a pivotal role in my journey to healing my back after a car accident in 2017. Their positive attitude and ability to build instant rapport with each of his clients constantly amazes me.

Their dedication to solving the mystery behind my injury and constant support in advocating for my health has been a necessary component to the success I've had treating this injury.

I trust Vancity Physio fully with this injury and I will undoubtedly be visiting any time I need to see a physiotherapist in the future. Do yourself a favour and book in now!

— Gabrielle D.

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❮ ❯

Ranko Vukovic

Physiotherapist | GUNN IMS Practitioner

Ranko is a Registered Physiotherapist (RPT) licensed with the College of Physiotherapists of British Columbia and a member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.

He graduated from UBC in 2015 with a Masters of Physical Therapy. A passion for sport saw Ranko work as a BCRPA Certified Personal Trainer and Kinesiologist, creating tailored training programs for a diverse group of clients, educating and motivating them to reach their personal fitness goals.

Ranko has post-graduate training in treating jaw pain, otherwise known as TMJ and Orofacial pain. He’s also a Certified CGIMS Practitioner, and has completed his training at UBC. In addition, Ranko finished his Functional Dry Needling (FDN) certification in University of Navada Las Vegas. Ranko's training also includes ShockWave Therapy, Mobilization with Movement and Kinetic Link Training. He was featured in the Top 100 Canadians Magazine for 2020.

Our team. Vancity Physiotherapy located in Vancouver, British Columbia. Your trusted Physiotherapy experts.

Isabel Aganon

Isabel Aganon graduated with a Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto. Boasting over a decade of experience as a dedicated physiotherapist, she is committed to improving her patient’s functional outcomes and enhancing their overall well-being.

With a steadfast commitment to providing exceptional care, she has honed her expertise through specialized training in Vestibular Rehabilitation, Chronic Pain Management, Pilates, Pelvic Health, Acupuncture, and Arthritis Care. She also possess expertise with returning injured workers back to their optimal level through work conditioning programs.

Notably, Isabel played an essential role in shaping the Advanced Practice Physiotherapy role within the Hip and Knee Surgical Assessment Program at Vancouver Coastal Health. Additionally, she collaborated closely with orthopaedic surgeons at the University Health Network in Toronto, contributing her expertise to triages in upper and lower extremity programs and spine clinics. Her experience in treating chronic pain has given her valuable insights into the interplay of psychosocial and environmental influences on patient recovery.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Isabel is deeply engaged in personal growth and wellness pursuits. She has delved into the study of mindfulness meditation and finds rejuvenation through her passion for hiking. During her journeys to India, she diligently honed her skills in Ashtanga yoga and various breathing techniques, integrating them into her practice when it is suitable.

Amy Edwards at Vancity Physiotherapy. Physiotherapists Vancouver

Audrey Cullis

Audrey is a dedicated and experienced Physiotherapist passionate about helping individuals optimize their physical health and performance. A former competitive ice hockey player, she brings a unique perspective to her practice, drawing on her athletic background to understand the demands of physical activity.

After earning a Bachelor of Medical Sciences with Honours Specialization in Physiology from the University of Western Ontario, Audrey moved to British Columbia to pursue her Master’s in Physical Therapy at UBC, graduating in 2023. She currently works at VanCity Physio and the Acute Rehab Unit at Sunny Hill Health Centre, where she provides intensive rehabilitation services to children with various neurological and physical disabilities.

Outside of work, Audrey enjoys an active lifestyle, including snowboarding, hiking, camping, and running. She has a particular interest in treating sports injuries, especially those related to hockey and running. She is available to conduct running assessments to help individuals improve their performance and prevent injuries.
Audrey is committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based care. She is excited to work with you to achieve your health and wellness goals.

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