In short
Ménière's disease is an inner-ear disorder that causes episodes of vertigo lasting from 20 minutes to several hours, with fluctuating hearing loss, ringing and ear fullness. Physicians manage the disease itself; vestibular rehabilitation helps with imbalance between attacks.
Reviewed by Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPS. Updated October 17, 2026.
Common symptoms
- Vertigo attacks lasting 20 minutes to several hours
- Fluctuating hearing loss, usually in one ear
- Ringing (tinnitus) and fullness in the ear
- Unsteadiness between attacks as the condition progresses
Not sure this matches? Take the 60-second dizziness self-check.
What causes Ménière's disease?
The cause is not fully known. It is associated with a build-up of fluid in the inner ear, called endolymphatic hydrops.
Ménière's disease can be hard to tell apart from vestibular migraine, and some people have both. Over time, repeated attacks can leave lasting inner-ear weakness on one side.
How we test
Your first visit is a full 60-minute, 1-on-1 evaluation, and treatment often starts the same day. Depending on your symptoms, testing can include:
- History and testing to separate Ménière's from BPPV and vestibular migraine
- Infrared video goggle and head impulse testing
- Balance testing
- Coordination with your ENT and audiologist
Understanding Meniere’s Disease (Endolymphatic Hydrops)
Meniere's disease is characterized by abnormal fluid pressure fluctuations (endolymphatic hydrops) within the inner ear, causing episodic rotational vertigo, fluctuating low-frequency hearing loss, roaring tinnitus, and aural fullness. While acute episodes are managed medically with sodium restriction or ENT interventions, repeated hydrops attacks progressively weaken baseline vestibular sensor function—leaving patients with chronic unsteadiness between attacks.
Interictal Phase Balance Stabilization
We specialize in rehabilitating Meniere's patients during the "interictal phase" (the intervals between acute vertigo attacks), recalibrating your central nervous system to compensate for permanent unilateral vestibular loss and screening for secondary BPPV, which occurs at a significantly higher rate in Meniere's ears.
Our Meniere’s Rehabilitation Pillars
- VOR Gain OptimizationTargeted gaze stabilization drills to maximize the efficiency of your remaining inner-ear hair cells and reduce visual lag during movement.
- Somatosensory & Visual SubstitutionTraining your ankles, hips, and proprioceptive pathways to anchor your stability so you remain confident even if inner-ear pressure fluctuates.
- Dynamic Fall-Prevention ConditioningComputerized balance mapping and Zero-Fall harness training to protect against sudden postural drops.
Ready to Reclaim Your Balance & Confidence?
Looking for relief? Schedule a 60-minute 1-on-1 evaluation at our Alpharetta Clinic (Inside GBSPT) or our Cumming Clinic, or call (470) 380-7007.
Your treatment plan
Coordinate with your ENT
Your ENT manages diet, medication and other treatments for the disease itself.
Treat imbalance between attacks
Vestibular rehabilitation is used during stable periods, not during an acute attack.
Safety and confidence
Fall-risk reduction and a plan for handling an attack safely.
Recovery and what to expect
Vestibular rehabilitation does not stop attacks, but it can reduce unsteadiness between them, especially when the condition has caused lasting inner-ear weakness.
Tips for daily life
- Follow your ENT's advice on salt, caffeine and alcohol
- Sit or lie down somewhere safe at the first sign of an attack
- Keep a diary of attacks and possible triggers
- Plan for safety when driving or working at heights
When to get urgent care
Questions about Ménière's disease
Should I do exercises during an attack?
No. During an attack, rest somewhere safe. Rehabilitation is for the periods between attacks.
Can therapy help my hearing or tinnitus?
No. Your ENT and audiologist manage hearing and tinnitus. We focus on balance.
Related guides
Browse all guides in our learning center
Related conditions
- LabyrinthitisInner ear inflammation causing vertigo along with hearing changes.
- Unilateral hypofunction (UVH)Weakness in one inner ear, often after a viral infection.
- Vestibular migraineDizziness and motion sensitivity linked to migraine.
- Balance & fall preventionAge-related balance decline and increased fall risk.
References
- Lopez-Escamez JA, et al. Diagnostic criteria for Menière's disease. Journal of Vestibular Research. 2015.
Where to get treated
Book at either clinic. Same phone number, same team, same 60-minute visits.
Cumming clinic
Off GA-400 Exit 13 on Peachtree Parkway
Cumming, GA 30041
Alpharetta clinic
Inside Georgia Brain & Spine Physical Therapy
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Also serving Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Suwanee and nearby communities.
