Balance Disorders Clinic

Types of Rehab: Inpatient & Outpatient
Location(s): Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center

If you have symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, unsteadiness or even nausea that affect your daily abilitites, you may benefit from this clinic.

What are Balance and Vestibular Disorders?

Many balance problems have to do with the inner ear, which can affect balance and body orientation. Because the vestibular system interacts with many other parts of the nervous system, people with vestibular or inner ear disorders can suffer from a variety of symptoms.

Some common causes of vestibular or balance disorders are: 

• Blows to the head and whiplash
• Ear infections and inflammation
• Certain viruses
• High doses, or long-term use of certain antibiotics, which can cause permanent damage to the inner ear
• Blockage of blood flow to the inner ear or the brain
• Meniere’s Disease
• Neurological Disorders
• Arthritis

Our Treatment Approaches

If a vestibular or balance disorder is diagnosed, your physician can refer you to the Avera McKennan Balance Disorders Clinic to receive therapy.

You will receive a thorough evaluation at your first visit by either an occupational or a physical therapist who will review your posture, balance, movement and adjustments you've made to maintain your balance. The results of this evaluation will help the therapist develop a treatment plan specifically for you.

The therapist will also work with you to learn techniques to help reduce your dizziness or balance problems at home and work. Vestibular or balance therapy does not eliminate the cause of the symptoms, but helps you manage your disorder.

You can schedule an appointment by calling (605) 322-5123.