Understanding Vestibular Rehabilitation for Concussions: How We Treat It at Our Kansas City Office

When someone experiences a concussion, one of the most common and disruptive symptoms involves the vestibular system—the part of the inner ear and brain that helps control balance, spatial orientation, and coordination. Damage or dysfunction in this system after a car accident can lead to dizziness, unsteadiness, motion sensitivity, and difficulty focusing.

Lance Stevenson, DC

6/25/20252 min read

What Is Vestibular Dysfunction After a Concussion?

The vestibular system includes the inner ear, the brainstem, and various neural pathways responsible for maintaining equilibrium and gaze stability. After a concussion, these areas can become disrupted, leading to:

  • Dizziness or vertigo

  • Nausea and motion intolerance

  • Unsteady gait or balance problems

  • Blurry vision or trouble with eye tracking

  • Fatigue and difficulty concentrating

Even low-speed car accidents can result in subtle vestibular injuries due to axonal shearing, which disrupts how your brain communicates with your body’s balance and orientation systems.

How Vestibular Rehab Helps Concussion Recovery

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is a specialized form of physiotherapy that retrains the brain to process balance and spatial information correctly. We assess your vestibular function through a detailed exam, including:

  • Eye movement and tracking tests

  • Balance and gait analysis

  • Motion sensitivity evaluations

  • Visual-vestibular integration tests

Once we determine which part of your system is affected—whether it's the inner ear, visual system, or proprioception—we design a personalized VRT program that may include:

  • Gaze stabilization exercises to help with eye movement control

  • Habituation exercises to reduce motion sensitivity

  • Balance and postural retraining to improve coordination and reduce fall risk

  • Visual-vestibular exercises to strengthen how your eyes and vestibular system work together

These exercises are progressive and customized based on your current symptoms and recovery goals. Consistent therapy not only improves function but also prevents long-term complications like post-concussion syndrome.

Why Vestibular Rehab Matters for Car Accident Victims

Vestibular dysfunction can severely disrupt your daily life, making it hard to work, drive, or even walk without feeling off-balance. If left untreated, these issues can linger for months or even years.

As a concussion and personal injury specialist, I understand how to detect subtle vestibular issues that other providers might miss. My clinic offers comprehensive care tailored to car accident victims, helping you navigate the complexities of insurance, documentation, and long-term rehabilitation.

Why Choose Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC for Post-Concussion Vestibular Rehab?

With extensive experience treating concussion-related injuries from car accidents, I take a whole-body approach to recovery. My office is a one-stop shop for injury care—we handle the diagnosis, treatment, insurance documentation, and even coordinate with your attorney.

Patients across Kansas City, Overland Park, Shawnee, Lenexa, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Gladstone, Independence, and Liberty trust me to get to the root of their symptoms and provide lasting relief through focused, expert care.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with dizziness, unsteadiness, or balance issues after a concussion, don’t wait.

📞 Call Dr. Lance Stevenson, DC today at 816-226-7476 to schedule your free consultation and find out how vestibular rehab can help you recover fully and confidently. Let’s get you back on your feet—literally.

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