We recently talked about vestibular dysfunction. Now let's explore vestibular hypersensitivity. In vestibular hypersensitivity, the sensory systems themselves are often functioning normally, but the brain becomes overly responsive to incoming information. Instead of a signal accuracy problem, this is more of a signal processing and threat modulation problem. Some clues that vestibular hypersensitivity may be contributing include: • Rocking, swaying, or floating sensations rather than spinning • Symptoms that are present most days • Feeling worse in grocery stores, crowds, traffic, or busy environments • Increased symptoms with stress, fatigue, poor sleep, or cognitive overload • Sensitivity to light, sound, motion, or visual stimuli • Symptoms that feel out of proportion to movement itself Unlike vestibular dysfunction, there isn't a single test that diagnoses hypersensitivity. Clinical assessment often focuses on patterns: • Symptom timing and triggers • Visual motion sensitivity • Functional impact and avoidance patterns • Balance confidence and fear of movement • Associated conditions such as vestibular migraine, PPPD, concussion, anxiety, or dysautonomia Treatment focuses less on ""fixing"" the signal and more on helping the brain feel safe enough to process sensory information efficiently again. Helpful starting points may include: ✓ Nervous system regulation strategies ✓ Gentle, low-dose habituation ✓ Visual motion tolerance training ✓ Graded movement and exposure ✓ Improving sleep, stress management, and pacing ✓ Reducing avoidance while staying within an appropriate challenge zone With hypersensitivity, pushing too hard can sometimes reinforce the brain's interpretation that the input is threatening. The goal isn't to avoid symptoms completely, but to provide enough challenge to promote adaptation without overwhelming the system. And just like with vestibular dysfunction, many people experience a combination of both patterns. Understanding which mechanism is contributing most can help guide treatment and explain why the same exercise may help one person and aggravate another.