Vestibular rehabilitation
Vertigo & Vestibular Rehabilitation in New Westminster
Vertigo and dizziness can make everyday life feel unsafe. Most causes respond very well to vestibular rehabilitation – a hands-on, exercise-based physiotherapy focused on the inner ear and balance. We find the cause and often start treatment the same day. No referral needed.
What is vestibular rehab?
Balance depends on the inner ear, the eyes, and the body’s position sensors. When one is off (usually the inner ear), you get vertigo. Rehab either repositions what’s out of place or retrains the brain to compensate.
Conditions we treat
(not limited to)
What to expect
1
Thorough assessment
Including the Dix-Hallpike test to pinpoint the cause of your dizziness.
2
Targeted treatment, often same day
Epley / canalith repositioning for BPPV; gaze-stabilization & balance retraining for other causes.
3
Home program & realistic timeline
Simple exercises to keep progressing, with a clear picture of what recovery looks like.
Why choose Retrieve
- Fast, same-week access
- One clinic, whole-person care
- No referral needed
- ICBC & WorkSafeBC direct billing
- Care in English, Punjabi & Hindi
Realistic outcomes
Repositioning resolves most BPPV within 1–3 visits, and there is strong evidence that vestibular rehab reduces dizziness and improves balance.
When to seek emergency care
Dizziness with sudden severe headache, slurred speech, weakness or numbness, double vision, fainting or chest pain can signal an emergency – call 911.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have BPPV?
BPPV usually causes brief, intense spinning triggered by head movements – like rolling over in bed or looking up. A simple in-clinic test (Dix-Hallpike) confirms it, and it’s one of the most treatable causes of vertigo.
Can physio really fix vertigo?
For many causes, yes. Repositioning maneuvers resolve most BPPV quickly, and vestibular rehab exercises retrain your balance system for other conditions. It’s an evidence-based, first-line treatment.
Do I need a referral?
No. In British Columbia you can book vestibular physiotherapy directly, without a doctor’s referral.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the cause. BPPV often resolves in 1–3 visits; other vestibular conditions may need a short course of balance retraining.
Is it safe – will it make me dizzy?
Assessment and treatment can briefly provoke dizziness, which is expected and closely managed by your physiotherapist. It settles quickly and is part of how the treatment works.
Do you direct bill?
Yes – we direct-bill ICBC and WorkSafeBC for eligible claims, and many extended health plans.