Since June of 2007, the Vestibular Rehabilitation Program at North Fulton Regional Hospital has been helping patients conquer and deal with their dizziness and balance issues. Coordinated primarily by Diedra Olin, the program shows no signs of slowing.

A devoted physical therapist, Olin has worked at North Fulton Regional Hospital for the past two years. After working extensively in balance development with the pediatric population, she has brought her interest in vestibular dysfunction and balance to the Outpatient Rehabilitation Department of North Fulton Regional Hospital.

“Instead of helping my patients develop functional balance systems, I work on rebuilding them. The premise is the same, so my foundation in normal and abnormal system development serves me well with the adult population,” Olin says. “Therapists who are interested in this area
need extensive continuing education in balance and vestibular rehab.” Having this continuing education and experience has prepared Olin to pursue her Vestibular Competency through Emory University this April.

Prior to her work at North Fulton Regional Hospital, Olin spent several years working as a bank examiner for the Federal Reserve Banking System. “Although it was an interesting career, banking examinations didn’t suit me because I am so high energy,” says Olin. She realized her interest in becoming a physical therapist after pulling from her years of experience as a gymnast and coach and all the sports related physical therapy she had received as an athlete. “It became apparent that I needed to work somehow with my interest in fitness, so pursuing a career in physical therapy was a perfect fit for me.”

Completely devoted to her career and furthering the practice of vestibular rehabilitation, Olin finds motivation from her patients. “I enjoy problem solving and being able to improve someone’s function and safety.” She also enjoys running and tennis but prefers to spend most of her time when she is not working with her children.

For more information about Vestibular Rehabilitation at North Fulton Regional Hospital, call 770-751-2650, or visit www.northfultonregional.com/rehab.