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Understanding and Treating Idiopathic Geriatric Vestibular Disease
TITLE: Understanding and Treating Idiopathic Geriatric Vestibular Disease
HOURS: 
  • Thurs. April 30th, 8:30am - 12:45pm
OR
  • Fri. May 1st, 2:15pm - 6:30pm
WORKSHOP RATING:
  • Basic: CCRP, CCRT, CCAT   
  • Intermediate: DVM/VMD, PT, VT, CCRA, CCRVN
MAX PARTICIPANTS: 20 seats per workshop
  • 14 seats open Thursday
  • 12 seats open Friday
CONTACT HOURS: 4.0 RACE-approved; 4.0 NYSED-approved
 
DESCRIPTION: There is a theory amongst canine PT / physiotherapist practitioners regarding old dogs with sudden onset vestibular signs. The thought is that idiopathic geriatric vestibular disease in dogs is similar to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo in people. If they are the same, then perhaps treatment can be the same as well. Join this workshop to learn about otoliths, the Dix Hallpike, the Epley, the Semont, and how to restore vestibular function and balance in those dizzy old dogs.
 
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will gain an understanding about the anatomy of the inner ear as it relates to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
  • Participants will learn about human testing procedures for BPPV (the Dix Hallpike and the Side Lie Techniques) and how to adapt them to dogs.
  • Participants will human techniques to treat BPPV (the Epley and Semont maneuvers)  and how to adapt them to dogs.
  • Participants will learn and practice techniques to address ocular dysfunctions, balance dysfunctions, and persistent head tilt issues.
 
Course Outline
Lecture
  • Background and assessment of BPPV
  • Treatment techniques for BPPV
  • Treatment techniques to address ocular dysfunction associated with BPPV
  • Treatment techniques to address balance dysfunction associated with BPPV
Lab
  • Build an inner ear model
  • Test our own vestibular systems
  • Practice the Dix Hallpike, Side lie, Epley, and Semont Procedures on models (not real dogs)
  • Practice vestibular rehab techniques that address balance and eye movement
  • Addressing persistent head tilt issues
 
Cancellation Policy and Refund Request
To request a refund, please complete and postmark this Workshop Cancellation Form by March 28, 2026.  Refunds exclude a $25 processing fee. 

Understanding and Treating Idiopathic Geriatric Vestibular Disease

$492.00Price

  • Laurie Edge-Hughes, BScPT, MAnimSt(Animal Physio), CAFCI, CCRT, CSmAnimAcup/Needling

    Laurie Edge-Hughes obtained her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta in 1993 and has since focused her post-graduate training on orthopedics, osteopathy, acupuncture, and animal rehabilitation. Additionally, she completed her Master of Animal Studies in Animal Physiotherapy through the University of Queensland (Australia)in 2006. Laurie taught the first canine physiotherapy/physical therapy courses in Canada (1999), the USA(1999), and Australia (2001). She has been involved in the Animal RehabDivision since its inception in 1994 and teaches canine physiotherapy and rehabilitation courses for the Animal Rehab Division (ARD) of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA). Additionally, she holds the position of Advocacy Lead for the ARD and is chair of the Registry of Allied Animal Health Practitioners of Canada.

    Laurie taught for ten years for the Canine Rehabilitation Institute in the USA, and continues to lecturer internationally as often as able.  In 2020, she was awarded the inaugural Veterinary Rehabilitation Therapist Award by the International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy and in 2021 was awarded a Medal of Distinction by the CPA.  Laurie’s biggest teaching venture is currently via www.FourLeg.com, an online educational platform for continuing education in canine rehabilitation / physiotherapy.

    Laurie co-owns and practices out of the Canine Fitness Centre Ltd (www.caninefitness.com) in Calgary, Alberta.

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