Are you experiencing a spinning sensation, even when sitting still? You might be suffering from vertigo. While not life-threatening, vertigo can significantly impact your daily life. The good news? Physical therapy for vertigo can help diagnose the cause and determine the best course of treatment. Let’s dive into what vertigo is, its causes, and how physical therapy can help you regain your balance.
Vertigo is a common ailment affecting millions each year. It’s characterized by a sensation of spinning, rocking, or moving, even when you’re perfectly still. Symptoms often worsen with head or body movements, such as:
While there are many potential causes of vertigo, some are more common than others:
The most frequent cause is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Inner-ear infections
Vestibular neuritis
Meniere’s disease
Vascular impairment
Strokes
Tumors
Neck (cervical spine) issues
Spotlight on BPPV: The Leading Cause of Vertigo
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common vertigo trigger. It occurs due to a mechanical change in the inner ear. Tiny “crystals” or particles in the inner ear can become dislodged and travel into one of the semicircular canals, creating a false sense of movement.
Recognizing Vertigo Symptoms
If you’re experiencing vertigo, you may notice:
Dizziness
Loss of balance
Trouble focusing your eyes
Sweating
Ringing in the ears or hearing loss
Nausea and/or vomiting
These symptoms can occur with quick movements or even when sitting still.
How Physical Therapy Diagnoses Vertigo
A physical therapist can determine if BPPV is causing your symptoms through:
Balance testing
Specific movement tests, such as the Dix-Hallpike test
Observing for nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
These diagnostic tools help pinpoint which ear canal is affected, guiding the treatment approach.
Physical Therapy Treatment for Vertigo
After a comprehensive evaluation, your physical therapist will create a customized treatment plan. This may include:
Eye-tracking exercises: To improve visual stability
Balance exercises: Performed on various surfaces to challenge your balance system
Walking activities: Combined with head movements to improve coordination
Habituation exercises: Such as Brandt-Daroff exercises, to reduce sensitivity to certain movements
Canalith repositioning procedures: Specifically for BPPV
Spotlight on BPPV Treatment
For BPPV, the primary treatment is the canalith repositioning procedure, often using the Epley Maneuver. This series of movements helps relocate the displaced crystals in your inner ear. Most patients find relief in just 1-2 visits.
For persistent symptoms, your therapist might employ:
The Semont Maneuver: An alternative repositioning technique
Habituation exercises: To help your brain adjust to the mismatch in signals
Even after your symptoms resolve, your physical therapist may recommend additional balance training tailored for inner ear problems.
Why Choose Physical Therapy for Vertigo?
Non-invasive treatment: No medications or surgeries required
Quick results: Many patients see improvement in just a few sessions
Customized care: Treatment plans tailored to your specific needs
Long-term benefits: Learn techniques to manage and prevent future episodes
Improved quality of life: Regain your confidence in daily activities
Don’t let vertigo spin your world out of control. With physical therapy, you can address the root cause of your symptoms and get back to living your life to the fullest. If you’re experiencing vertigo symptoms, consider consulting a physical therapist today. Take the first step towards regaining your balance and improving your quality of life.
Aquacare/Fitness Forum Physical Therapy
