Vestibular Rehabilitation
Also written as: VR — Vestibular Rehabilitation
An exercise-based program designed to promote central nervous system compensation for vestibular system deficits, reducing symptoms such as dizziness and imbalance.
Full Definition
Vestibular rehabilitation (VR) is a specialized form of physiotherapy or audiological therapy aimed at reducing dizziness, vertigo, and gait instability by facilitating central compensation for peripheral or central vestibular dysfunction. It may be delivered by audiologists, physiotherapists, or neurologists, depending on the clinical setting and the scope of practice in the relevant jurisdiction. Editors working on multidisciplinary documents must note that responsibility for vestibular rehabilitation may be attributed to different professionals across different settings, and the author's intended professional role should be preserved. The abbreviation VR should be used cautiously, as it is also widely used for 'virtual reality' in other health and technology contexts — full disambiguation on first use is essential.
Usage
Usage note: Disambiguate the abbreviation VR clearly at first use; virtual reality uses the same acronym. Note that the treating professional varies by jurisdiction and scope.
In Context
- "The patient was referred for vestibular rehabilitation following a diagnosis of unilateral vestibular hypofunction." — ENT discharge letter
- "Avoid using 'VR' for 'vestibular rehabilitation' without disambiguation, as the same abbreviation denotes 'virtual reality' elsewhere in the document." — Multidisciplinary clinical guideline editorial note