Vestibular Physiotherapy
Vertigo is where you experience the feeling that you or the room is spinning or moving when you are still. It is a specific type of dizziness, usually caused by problems in the inner ear or brain that control balance (the vestibular system).
There are numerous causes of vertigo, but one of the most commonly diagnosed is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is characterised by brief episodes of dizziness triggered by changes in head position. Common activities that can bring on symptoms of BPPV can include rolling in bed, looking up to hang out washing, rising from sitting or even walking. The condition is caused when tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and "stuck" in one of the semicircular canals. These small crystals which help to tell us where our head is positioned which is why different activities affect different people, as each activity will favour one of the three canals which function to tell us our head position. With the crystals out of their correct position, there is then a disagreement between our eyes and ears as to where our head is, leading to symptoms such as the room spinning and nausea (much like on a show ride).
Symptoms of BPPV
- Sudden dizziness or a spinning sensation when changing head positions (e.g., rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending down).
- Loss of balance or unsteadiness.
- Nausea or, in some cases, vomiting.
- Brief episodes that typically last less than a minute but can be recurrent.
Vestibular Physiotherapy at Physio-Wise
Vestibular physiotherapy is a specialised type of physiotherapy that treats issues caused by the Vestibular system such as vertigo and imbalance. While we do not offer a fully comprehensive Vestibular Physiotherapy service, a selection of our physiotherapists are able to effectively treat simple cases of vertigo such as BPPV.
How does Vestibular Physiotherapy Help?
- Repositioning Manoeuvres: Techniques such as the Epley Manoeuvre and the Semont Manoeuvre guide the dislodged crystals back to their correct position in the inner ear, alleviating symptoms quickly.
- Balance and Gaze Stability Exercises: These exercises help retrain the brain and vestibular system to improve stability and reduce dizziness.
- Education & Self-Management Strategies: We provide clients with guidance on how to avoid triggers and manage symptoms effectively at home.
BPPV can be disruptive, but it is often highly treatable with the right approach.
Book an appointment today and take the first step towards dizziness-free living.
