What is Vestibular PT?

It encompasses the evaluation and treatment of disorders involving the vestibular organ, which is your body's balance sensory organ. The evaluation is able to detect where within the vestibular system there is a problem (at the organ itself or in the nerve pathways connecting it to the brain) and focus treatment on your particular deficits. Treatments may include eye gaze exercises, balance training, and/or motion sensitivity exercises. For positional vertigo, the treatment is maneuvers that only need to be performed a few times. For more information, take a look at my Blog page!

Do you accept insurance?

These services operate on a cash basis, meaning that you pay the provider directly via cash, check, or credit card payment. Upon request, Melissa can produce a SuperBill, a document you can submit to your insurance to seek reimbursement on your own behalf for each session individually. If you prefer to use your insurance coverage, Melissa does also offer services through BodyPro Physical Therapy in Kamuela, HI on the Big Island, where most insurances are accepted.

What is Vertigenius™?

Vertigenius™ is a new wearable device. It resembles a hearing aide that is worn over the ear and senses your movement while you are doing exercises. It uses bluetooth technology to record your head speed and direction of movement, and even provides feedback to you if you are not doing the exercise correctly. It is used together with the Vertigenius™ app, which provides you with specific instructions and videos of your exercises and allows Melissa to adjust the exercises as needed remotely. For more information, visit vertigenius.com

Yes, telehealth appointments are provided as an option for your convenience. Melissa is only licensed for patients living in or currently visiting the State of Hawaii. The service that will be used for telehealth appointments is Doxy.me. You will need access to a computer, tablet, or smart phone and WiFi in order to participate in telehealth sessions.

Can I do telehealth sessions?

Do I need a referral?

No referral needed; I follow direct access regulations but will refer you to other specialtists if necessary.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your condition. Generally, patients undergoing vestibular rehab need between 3 to 8 visits for new or acute conditions that only involve the peripheral organ. If your dizziness stems from the level of the brainstem or brain, or you have had chronic dizziness for many years, your treatment will likely need to be longer.

Where will we do in-person sessions?

Melissa will come directly to you for treatment at home or another safe, appropriate location within a 45-minute radius of her base. If you prefer a clinic setting, she also sees patients once a month—every second Saturday—at Trunk Trainers (73-5593 Olowalu St Bldg A, Kailua-Kona), located in the industrial complex across from Home Depot. This additional location allows us to better serve patients across the Big Island.

Do you have another question?

Please feel free to call or text Melissa directly at 808-210-4458, send an email to hawaiidizzytherapy@gmail.com, or send a message through the Contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vestibular Therapy in Hawai'i