Bilateral Vestibulopathy
Bilateral vestibulopathy (BVP) is a condition where both sides of the vestibular system—the balance organs in your inner ears—are damaged or impaired. This can severely disrupt your ability to stay balanced, particularly in low-light environments, on uneven ground, or when moving your head. Unlike sudden-onset vertigo, BVP typically causes a constant sense of unsteadiness, especially when walking or turning.
At Sparq Physical Therapy in Castle Rock, CO, we help individuals with BVP regain stability, confidence, and control over their movement. Through customized vestibular rehabilitation programs, we focus on retraining your brain and body to compensate for the loss of vestibular input—so you can move more safely and independently in daily life.
Affected Area
Bilateral vestibulopathy impacts both inner ears, specifically the vestibular nerves and semicircular canals responsible for balance and spatial orientation. As the brain receives diminished signals from both sides, compensatory strain can develop in the eyes, muscles of the neck and trunk, and central nervous system responsible for balance, coordination, and gaze stabilization.
Symptoms
People with BVP often experience chronic imbalance, especially while walking, standing in the dark, or turning quickly. Unlike typical vertigo, spinning sensations are rare. Instead, symptoms may include unsteadiness, blurred vision with movement (oscillopsia), difficulty walking in dim environments, and a general sense of disorientation or visual instability.
Treatments
While the vestibular damage in BVP is usually permanent, physical therapy can help maximize your remaining balance systems and improve daily function. At Sparq PT, we use targeted vestibular rehabilitation to support long-term adaptation and safety. Your treatment plan may include:
Balance retraining using visual and somatosensory cues to compensate for vestibular loss
Gaze stabilization exercises to reduce blurred vision during head movement
Postural control strategies to reduce fall risk during walking and transitions
Functional mobility training to improve confidence in home and community settings
Education and home modifications to improve safety and reduce dizziness triggers
Our one-on-one care ensures you receive the support and guidance needed to navigate life with BVP—and continue doing the things you love, with more stability and confidence.