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Prerequisites RequiredDizziness accounts for up to 11% of Emergency Department visits each year in the United States, approximately 40% of these patients have peripheral vestibular dysfunction. The key to recognizing dizziness caused by peripheral vestibular dysfunction is recognizing nystagmus, involuntary jumping of the eyes. Physical and occupational therapists can play an important role in helping to identify the presence of a peripheral vestibular disorder, thus potentially saving money on unnecessary testing and lengthy hospital stays. This presentation will provide an overview of the anatomy of the vestibular system as well as the pathophysiology of common etiologies that can cause dizziness. Participants will learn evidence-based oculomotor examinations aimed at identifying abnormal eye movements and nystagmus patterns to help identify potential causes of dizziness and lead to an appropriate differential diagnosis.
Vestibular Rehab | SCORM Package | ||
Next Steps | Module |
Kara Rawlings, PT, DPT, NCS, is a Physical Therapist specializing in the assessment and treatment of patients with vestibular and neurological disorders. She graduated from Ohio University's Doctorate of Physical Therapy program in 2008 where she learned the basics of vestibular rehabilitation during both course work and clinical experiences. Kara was awarded the Susan Herdman Certificate of Competency in Vestibular Rehabilitation in 2014 from Emory University. Kara currently works with patients with a range of neurological disorders within OhioHealth's neurological multi-disciplinary outpatient clinics.
Kara has worked to establish and build a cross-continuum vestibular rehabilitation team at OhioHealth with goals of improving patient identification and access to effective treatment. Kara has instructed continuing education courses in vestibular rehabilitation and also management of the post-concussive patient and has served as a guest lecturer in physical therapy assistant programs in Ohio. Kara is also a board-certified clinical specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy and is an APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor.
DISCLOSURES
FINANCIAL: Kara Rawlings is compensated by Summit as an instructor.
NONFINANCIAL: Kara Rawlings has no nonfinancial relationships to disclose.
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