Common Vestibular Issues
Physiotherapy for Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence (SSCD)
Using the latest physiotherapy techniques to support your vestibular system.
The Vertigo Co
Vestibular Physiotherapy That Puts You First
Has poor balance and vertigo started to impact your daily routine? Perhaps you’ve noticed a sensitivity to pressure changes and loud noises when travelling. These could all be signs of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence (SSCD).
At The Vertigo Co, we offer vestibular physiotherapy in Melbourne to support those experiencing a wide range of vestibular disorders, including SSCD. If you’re ready for tailored support, reach out to our team today.
Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence (SSCD) Explained
Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence (SSCD) is a condition that causes vestibular dysfunction. This is caused by a tiny hole that forms in the superior semicircular canal of the inner ear. This hole is known as a dehiscence. A “dehiscence” means a thinning of bone that usually covers the superior semi circular canal. This extra “ third window” causes abnormal transmission of sound and pressure into the inner ear.
Unfortunately, there is no distinct cause of superior semicircular canal dehiscence. Often, it is seen occurring during fetal development (i.e. congenital), but in some cases, it may occur after a head trauma. In many cases this is picked up on a CT Scan and may in fact be asymptomatic (causing no symptoms).
Signs and Symptoms of SSCD
While there are several symptoms people may experience with superior semicircular canal dehiscence, most often it results in hearing loss and poor balance. Other vestibular symptoms may include:
- Vertigo triggered by loud sounds (this is known as the Tullio Phenomenon) or pressure changes (such as coughing, sneezing or straining)
- Blurring or wobbly vision (known as oscilliopsia, i.e. the world appears to bounce with head movement)
- Unsteadiness
- Autophony (hearing your own voice, heart beat, footsteps or even eye movements very loudly)
- Conductive Hearing loss
the Vertigo Co
Tailored Vestibular Rehabilitation
All of our rehabilitation techniques and treatments are tailored to suit your vestibular function.
Balance Exercises
We offer exercises and retraining for how you stand and walk so that you may improve your balance.
Habituation Exercises
These exercises aim to get your body and inner ear used to potentially dizzying movements.
Gaze Stability Training
With gaze stability training, you may be able to reduce blurriness and wobbly vision as you move.
Fall Prevention Strategies
If falling is a concern, we can offer tailored advice and strategies that may reduce your risk.
Your SSCD Questions Answered
Superior canal dehiscence syndrome is what occurs when an individual with SSCD begins experiencing symptoms.
There are several ways to treat SSCD, such as surgical repair via a procedure called “canal plugging or resurfacing”. This aims to eliminate the abnormal “third window” whilst preserving hearing. However, even after surgery, you may still experience vertigo and poor balance.
Vestibular physiotherapy may be able to support your recovery, retraining your balance system to feel more steady on your feet and reduce your dizziness over time.
How long your rehabilitation takes will depend on the severity of your vestibular condition. Many people may experience improvements after just a few weeks, while others may need months.
What Sets The Vertigo Co Apart?
Years of Experience
Our team has years of experience treating all kinds of vestibular conditions, so that we can meet you where you are.
Tailored Care
We tailor all our treatments to suit your needs and preferences. With genuine care, we strive to offer the right support when you need it most.
Local Support
Our vestibular clinic is located in Melbourne, so we can support our community with convenient yet quality care.
The Vertigo Co
Trust The Vertigo Co to Support You
Are you constantly worried about your poor balance causing a fall? Are you tired of dizziness and blurred vision? With tailored vestibular physiotherapy, you may be able to manage SSCD’s symptoms better.
Reach out to our team today and get started on your vestibular health journey. We’ll provide the care and support you need to thrive.