Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program

Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program

The physical therapists (PTs) at Memorial Rehabilitation are committed to providing our patients with excellent care while improving balance in activities of daily living that promote functional independence.

The physical therapists (PTs) at Memorial Rehabilitation are committed to providing our patients with excellent care while improving balance in activities of daily living that promote functional independence.

Our PTs have extensive knowledge in addressing vertigo, balance impairments, and fall-prevention strategies. Therapists have access to state-of-the-art equipment to provide evaluation and treatment of all types of vestibular and balance disorders.

Our Services

Fall prevention program

Our PTs use evidence-based exercises and techniques to strengthen muscles, improve coordination and balance, and increase safety awareness in home and community settings. Your PT will teach you exercises you can continue at home to enhance your balance.

Biodex SD

The Biodex SD is a machine that PTs use to measure balance deficits and perform fall risk assessments. With this information, your PT can develop an individualized exercise plan to optimize your balance and promote a safe and active lifestyle.

ICS Impulse lenses

ICS Impulse lenses are special eyewear for patients to use when testing and treating specific types of conditions associated with the vestibular system, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The lenses are equipped with a camera that records eye movements during selected tests and positions, giving the therapist information as to which part of the vestibular system is affected and allowing for the appropriate corrective exercises to be performed.

Who Can Benefit from the Program?

Patients who will benefit from Memorial’s Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program include those with:

  • BPPV (vertigo or room spinning)
  • Dizziness
  • History of frequent falls
  • Stroke
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Previous inner ear infection
  • Imbalance during walking, standing tasks, or transitional movements
  • Spatial or perceptual imbalance with changes in environment
  • Visual disturbances that affect balance
  • History of Meniere’s disease

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your therapist will ask questions about your condition to help them better understand your symptoms and what might be causing them. Then your therapist will select various tests to determine what provokes your dizziness and tests to examine your balance. Some of the testing for vertigo can put you in positions that might cause dizziness or nausea. We recommend not eating a few hours ahead of your appointment and having a driver as a precaution as it is possible you could feel dizzy after your evaluation.

Meet Our Team

Bridget Whiteside

Bridget began practicing as a physical therapist after graduating from Maryville University of St. Louis in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy. In 2011, she earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the College of St. Scholastica, Duluth, Minnesota. She has been treating vestibular conditions since 2003 and has extensive continuing education in the field of vestibular and balance rehabilitation. Bridget enjoys spending time with her husband and children and running with friends.

Adam Helmers

Adam earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in St. Louis and has been with Memorial for 10 years. He works with a wide variety of patients but especially enjoys working with patients affected by vestibular and balance issues. Adam enjoys being active outdoors and traveling with his family.

A Program Committed to You

The physical therapists at Memorial’s Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program are dedicated to helping improve your balance and quality of life.

Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program
Memorial Hospital Shiloh
Medical Office Building 1
1414 Cross Street, Suite 310
Shiloh, Illinois 62269
(618) 607-1301

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Ask your doctor for a referral to Memorial’s Balance and Vestibular Rehabilitation Program.