Purpose of review: This article reviews current literature pertaining to vestibular adaptation and rehabilitation.
Recent findings: Properly conducted and supervised vestibular rehabilitation therapy ameliorates a wide variety of peripheral and central balance disorders in patients of all ages. The best outcomes result from individualized vestibular rehabilitation therapy programs that correct or compensate for the negative impact of specific vestibular functional deficits and comorbid conditions on patient function. Comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction may affect vestibular rehabilitation therapy outcome. As objective postural instability improves in response to vestibular rehabilitation therapy, self-reported handicap lessens.
Summary: Successful vestibular rehabilitation therapy improves activities of daily living and reduces fall risk.