​Tinnitus Evaluation & Treatment

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Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a subjective noise you may hear due to hearing loss as a cause.  There may be multiple exacerbating issues, though assessment starts with a detailed symptom history, followed by a diagnostic audiogram.

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Because tinnitus can have various causes, our team-based approach ensures a thorough and personalized evaluation.   So far, tinnitus does not have a cure, but management strategies are discussed during your visit.

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Management options may include:

• Earwax removal

• Treatment of underlying ear disease

• TMJ management

• Sound therapy or masking

• Cognitive Processing Therapy

 

Dizziness & Vertigo Evaluation and Treatment

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At Sonoran Ear, Nose & Throat, we offer expert evaluation and treatment for vestibular dysfunction (i.e., ear-related balance problems).   Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and proven therapies to identify the cause of your condition and create a customized treatment plan.  

Ear-related dizziness  (i.e., vestibular system) includes symptoms such as:

• Vertigo (spinning sensation) or leering towards one direction

• Common ENT causes:   Meniere’s disease, vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, and BPPV (i.e., “crystals or rocks” in the ear)

Non-ear related dizziness (i.e., non-vestibular) balance issues may present as more swaying, lightheadedness, passing out, or trouble walking.    Systems involved in non-vestibular balance issues include:

• Vision system

• Neurologic system

• Cardiovascular system

• Neck joints

 

ENT Evaluation may include:

• Audiometry (i.e., hearing testing in office)

• Videonystagmography (VNG), which is in-office balance testing (see below)

• Imaging (CT/MRI) or additional lab work

 

Epley Maneuver & Canalith Repositioning

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One of the most common causes of vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). This condition occurs when tiny calcium crystals (i.e., otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and affect balance.

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Using VNG goggles and specific positioning techniques, we can identify which of the six inner ear canals is affected. The Epley Maneuver is the most common and effective treatment for BPPV and is performed right in our office. Depending on the affected canal, alternative repositioning maneuvers may be used.

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At Sonoran ENTA, diagnosis and treatment of BPPV can often be completed in the same visit.  If additional  workup or testing is needed, you will guided by our providers. 

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Vestibular Rehabilitation Exercises (VRT)

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VRT are a series of exercises designed to retrain your brain and body to adapt to changes in the vestibular system.   These customized programs help reduce dizziness, improve balance, and restore confidence with daily activities.  Instructions for these exercises are provided at the time of your evaluation, if indicated.

Treatment involves:

• Eye and head movement coordination

• Balance training

• Gradual exposure to motion triggers

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Programs are tailored to your specific diagnosis and symptoms and can be performed in the comfort of your home with guidance from our team. Consistency over several weeks is key to successful results.

 

Outpatient rehabilitation therapy

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Outpatient vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is a specialized form of outpatient physical therapy designed to improve balance and reduce symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, and visual disturbances associated with vestibular (inner ear) disorders.  This is sometimes ordered by the provider in certain circumstances needing more therapy than VRT.   

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Key Components:

• Evaluation:  An order is written by one of our providers.   A licensed physical therapist performs an assessment, including gait and balance tests, oculomotor exams, positional testing, and patient-reported symptoms.

• Customized Treatment Plan: Based on findings, the therapist develops a tailored exercise program aimed at:

  • Habituation – reducing dizziness through repeated exposure to motion triggers

  • Gaze stabilization – improving visual focus during head movements

  • Balance training – enhancing stability and reducing fall risk

• Home Exercises:   Some therapists will patients a home program to reinforce progress made in the outpatient clinic.

• Frequency: Typically, therapy is provided 1–2 times per week in the outpatient setting, with periodic re-evaluation.

 

If you're experiencing persistent dizziness or vertigo, don't wait—contact Sonoran Ear, Nose & Throat for a thorough evaluation and same-day treatment when possible.