Autonomic Dysfunction & POTS Rehabilitation
At Virginia Concussion and Pain Physical Therapy, we provide specialized care for individuals living with autonomic dysfunction, including Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). These conditions can affect nearly every aspect of daily life—causing fatigue, dizziness, brain fog, and exercise intolerance. We understand how frustrating and isolating these symptoms can be, especially when they don’t respond to traditional approaches. Our therapy is designed to support your nervous system, improve function gradually, and help you feel more stable, capable, and in control.
What Is Autonomic Dysfunction?
The autonomic nervous system controls automatic functions like heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. When it isn’t working properly, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms that vary from person to person.
Common symptoms include:
- Lightheadedness or dizziness when standing
- Heart rate that increases rapidly with minimal exertion
- Fatigue, nausea, or difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)
- Shortness of breath, especially with activity
- Exercise or activity intolerance
- Sensitivity to temperature or overstimulation
Conditions we work with include:
- POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)
- Orthostatic intolerance (OI)
- Autonomic symptoms following concussion or illness (e.g., long COVID)
Our Approach to Treatment
We understand that "pushing through" doesn't work for dysautonomia. Our approach focuses on gradual, guided rehabilitation that respects your current capacity while helping you build tolerance over time.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Graded exercise progression with close monitoring
- Recumbent or supported exercise (e.g., recumbent bike, mat-based movement)
- Breathing retraining to support autonomic regulation
- Neuromuscular re-education to improve movement efficiency and reduce overexertion
- Manual therapy for coexisting pain or tension (e.g., neck, jaw, back)
- Education on pacing, hydration, and symptom tracking
- Support for reintroducing functional activities at home, work, or school
We also collaborate with your physician and care team to ensure your rehab plan aligns with any medical management strategies such as medications, salt/fluid protocols, or compression garments.
Who We Help
- People newly diagnosed with POTS or autonomic dysfunction
- Individuals recovering from concussion or illness with autonomic symptoms
- Patients with chronic dizziness, fatigue, or exercise intolerance
- Teens and adults struggling with daily activities due to autonomic instability
Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been living with symptoms for years, we’re here to help you move forward with care that’s grounded in understanding, evidence, and compassion.
You’re Not Alone in This
Autonomic dysfunction and POTS are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or minimized. At Virginia Concussion and Pain Physical Therapy, we recognize the real impact of these conditions and work with you to create a safe, realistic, and effective path forward—one step at a time.