How Physiotherapy Can Help When Your World is Spinning

Vertigo is a symptom characterized by a disorienting sensation of apparent motion (usually spinning), which can make life challenging. A common cause is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when tiny crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into one of the vestibular canals. These loose crystals interfere with your sense of balance, causing symptoms like vertigo, nausea, and instability. Actions like rolling over in bed or looking up or down can trigger episodes of BPPV, which usually last less than a minute.
What you probably don’t realize is that physiotherapy can effectively treat BPPV. Through a detailed clinical examination, vestibular physiotherapists are trained to use techniques such as the Epley maneuver to treat BPPV. This involves a series of gentle head and body movements, guided by the physiotherapist, to reposition the dislodged crystals in your inner ear, relieving symptoms. Most people see significant improvement in just a few sessions.
Vestibular physiotherapists can also provide treatment and exercises for other causes of dizziness, such as motion sensitivity or neck-related dizziness. These exercises retrain your sensory system and body to handle movement more effectively, reducing dizziness and the risk of falls.

If you or someone you know is struggling with dizziness, consider seeing a vestibular physiotherapist. Don’t let it control your life—effective treatment is available to help you regain your balance and return to normal activities!