Vestibular rehabilitation focuses on retraining the brain to process signals from the inner ear and eyes to improve balance.
It is commonly used for BPPV, concussions, and neurological conditions.
Treatment plans include gaze stabilization exercises, balance training, and habituation. In physical therapy clinics, vestibular rehab requires detailed documentation of nystagmus, symptoms with testing and treatment, and specific maneuver results to demonstrate medical necessity. It is also important to note the amount of assistance and guarding provided.
Why it matters:
Balance-related conditions significantly impact patient safety. Clear, specialized documentation is required to support this skilled care.
Pro Tip:
Generic templates don't work for specialists. Vestibular progress is incremental, and your documentation needs to capture those specific details to justify continued care.
FAQ
- Who provides vestibular rehabilitation? Specially trained vestibular physical therapists typically deliver this care.
- Is vestibular rehab effective? Evidence shows it can significantly reduce dizziness and improve balance for many patients.
- Is vestibular rehab billable under standard PT codes? Yes, therapists typically use standard codes like 97112 (Neuromuscular Re-education) and 97110 (Therapeutic Exercise), along with evaluation codes.
- How long does VRT take? It varies, but BPPV can often be treated in just 1-2 sessions, while other hypofunctions may take anywhere from 6-12 weeks.