Vertigo is a disorienting and unsettling sensation that can strike out of nowhere. The spinning, dizzying feeling can vary in intensity and duration, but one thing remains constant for sufferers: its disruptive impact on everyday life.
Vertigo itself is not a diagnosable condition. Rather, it is a symptom that could point to any number of underlying causes. From inner ear dysfunction to neurological conditions, vertigo can stem from different origins, some more complex than others.
If you’re experiencing vertigo, physical therapy can be an effective, conservative, and accessible treatment option. By addressing the root cause of your dizziness, physical therapy offers targeted interventions that can restore balance and alleviate your symptoms.
What is vertigo?
Vertigo is commonly described as a sensation of spinning or tilting, giving the impression that you or your surroundings are moving when they’re not. It’s not your typical lightheadedness but more of a feeling as though the world is swirling around you.
This disorienting experience may last a few seconds, or it can persist for minutes or even hours. Vertigo can occur sporadically or may be triggered by specific movements, like turning your head quickly or lying down.
What makes vertigo particularly challenging is that even if the symptoms come and go, they can still take a toll on your daily activities. Simple tasks such as driving, working, or even standing upright can become uncomfortable, if not impossible.
Symptoms
If you’ve experienced vertigo, you know it’s rarely a solo symptom. Many people experience additional issues at the same time, which can add to the discomfort and confusion. These include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or unsteadiness
- Headaches or migraine
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or hearing loss
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
If left untreated, these symptoms can begin to develop into secondary issues, like anxiety or a heightened fear (and risk) of falling. This is why addressing vertigo early with a proactive approach is so important.
Risk factors
Vertigo can stem from a wide range of underlying causes, but there are some risk factors that may increase your likelihood of experiencing vestibular issues. These include:
- Inner ear problems like infections, inflammation, or BPPV, where small calcium particles become dislodged in the inner ear.
- Head injuries or trauma that cause damage to the vestibular system.
- Aging, which naturally increases the risk of vestibular dysfunction.
- Chronic conditions, including migraine, cardiovascular disease, or neurological issues like multiple sclerosis.
- Certain medications, such as antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs, that can affect balance.
- Stress and dehydration, which can exacerbate vestibular symptoms.
Understanding these risk factors helps healthcare providers narrow down potential causes and create a specific treatment plan to address your vertigo effectively.
BPPV treatment options
One of the most common causes of vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a condition triggered by specific head movements. This happens when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear shift out of place, disrupting the way your body perceives balance.
Fortunately, BPPV is one of the most treatable causes of vertigo, and physical therapy often plays a major role in resolving it. A physical therapist specializing in vestibular therapy can guide you through targeted exercises, such as repositioning techniques.
The Epley maneuver, for instance, is a well-known treatment for BPPV. It involves positioning the head in precise ways to move the dislodged crystals back into their correct spot, ultimately eliminating the false signals that cause vertigo.
Most people experiencing BPPV notice significant improvements after just a few physical therapy sessions. While the exact timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances, the success rate for physical therapy treatment of BPPV is highly encouraging, offering hope for those struggling with this condition.
What to expect from physical therapy for vertigo
Physical therapy doesn’t just address the symptoms of vertigo; it tackles the root cause by retraining your brain and body to process balance signals correctly. Here’s how vertigo PT treatment works to bring relief:
- Assessment and diagnosis: A physical therapist begins with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, balance, and movement patterns. This helps identify the underlying cause of your vertigo and establishes a tailored treatment plan.
- Vestibular rehabilitation exercises: These exercises are designed to strengthen the connection between your inner ear, brain, and body. They may include head and eye movements, balance training, and coordination exercises that gradually reduce symptoms.
- Repositioning maneuvers: Techniques such as the Epley and Semont maneuvers can effectively treat BPPV by repositioning the dislodged calcium crystals in your inner ear.
- Balance and gait training: For individuals who struggle with unsteadiness or a fear of falling, physical therapists provide targeted exercises to improve stability and confidence.
- Education and Lifestyle Adjustments: Physical therapists also offer education on how to manage triggers, prevent recurrences, and incorporate practical changes into your daily life to minimize dizziness.
PT treatment for vertigo at Armor Physical Therapy
At Armor Physical Therapy, we specialize in vestibular rehabilitation, offering tailored vertigo exercises and BPPV treatment that promotes lasting recovery. Whether you’re attending to vertigo caused by inner ear issues, post-injury effects, or other risk factors, we’re here to guide your recovery.
Don’t wait for vertigo to take over your life. Call a nearby Armor clinic or request an appointment online to find out how we may be able to help treat your symptoms of vertigo.
