Physical Therapy For Vertigo

Vertigo is a condition that affects how your balance works in your inner ear, and it is usually caused by an underlying vestibular disorder. However, vertigo can also be caused by problems in specific areas of the brain. According to Medical News Today, “Vertigo is a feeling of dizziness or spinning, occurring with or without any movement. It is caused when the brain feels the body is off balance even though it is not.”

Vertigo can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition or sometimes multiple underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of vertigo can range anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours and symptoms may also come and go at random. Studies show that approximately 69 million people experience vertigo in their lifetime, so, it’s important to understand the causes and symptoms of vertigo so sufferers can receive the appropriate course of treatment.

Symptoms of Vertigo

The primary symptom of vertigo is dizziness or spinning. However, there are many other symptoms which include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Lack of Coordination
Headaches
Ear Ringing
Sweating
Hearing Loss

Causes of Vertigo

Vertigo can be caused by several underlying medical conditions including inner ear infections, benign paroxysmal position vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, and Meniere’s disease. BPPV is the most common cause of both vestibular disorder and vertigo.

According to CBS News, “BPPV can occur when calcium builds up in the canals of the inner ear, causing brief dizziness that lasts from 20 seconds to one minute. It is usually brought on by trauma to the head or by moving the head in certain positions.” BPPV can be caused a traumatic event, such as a car accident.

Treatment for Vertigo

There are three primary treatment options for vertigo, the first being to attempt to allow vertigo heal on its own. In many instances, the brain can compensate for changes to the inner ear and restore the body’s balance naturally. Medications, such as steroids, are also a treatment option. However, this medication treats inflammation and water build up in the inner ear and will not address dizziness, which is the primary symptom.

For people who experience recurrent episodes of vertigo, (which is very common) physical therapy may be the best option. Vestibular rehabilitation is a type of physical therapy that helps train the central nervous system to resolve inner ear problems.