Vertigo and Balance Disorders
Vertigo and dizziness
There are many types and causes of vertigo or dizziness. Symptoms can range from troublesome to disabling. The good news is that many of these can be treated successfully and conservatively with physical therapy treatments. Ask yourself the questions below to see if you have two of the most common conditions we see that respond favorably to physical therapy.
Is the room spinning? Does it happen when you change in your head position like bending over, looking up or rolling over in bed?
You may have Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a dysfunction of the inner ear, in particular the portion that is responsible for balance. This is the most common cause of vertigo, and is caused when a small “crystal” floats around in the semi-circular canals of the vestibular system. This sends confusing messages to your brain, and your brain’s interpretation of the position of your head in relation to your body is altered.
The good news is BPPV usually resolves with 1-2 physical therapy treatments. Treatment includes very specific exercises which help to relocate the crystals.
Do you feel unsteady? Are you afraid of falling?
You may have an Imbalance disorder. Many causes can contribute to imbalance or unsteadiness. Most of these are treated successfully in physical therapy. Treatment includes a thorough assessment to identify factors contributing to your unsteadiness. We then work with you to address our findings which often includes strengthening, balance and walking exercises. Treatment traditionally also includes instruction in home exercises to work on balance issues.