Vertigo is a very common condition that causes a sensation of dizziness or spinning, often leading to an impaired sense of balance. In the famous words from the Kylie Minoque song, patients often report that they “are spinning around” and the sensation is horrible.
While there are various causes of vertigo, such as inner ear disorders, head injuries, or certain medications, one thing is clear: vertigo can be debilitating and quite disconcerting. Thankfully, physiotherapy is a proven and effective treatment option for managing vertigo symptoms and in many cases, preventing recurrence.
Some Physiotherapists are trained to assess, diagnose and treat vertigo through specialised techniques that address the underlying causes of dizziness – especially those related to the vestibular system. Our vestibular system is the key system that controls our balance and stability.
Here are some known treatments for vertigo:
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
VRT involves specific exercises designed to help the brain adapt to changes in balance signals caused by inner ear disorders. VRT focuses on improving coordination, balance, and the ability to process signals from the inner ear, eyes, and muscles. Sessions may involve:
Gaze stabilization exercises – These exercises improve the brain’s ability to focus on a target while moving the head.
Balance retraining – Simple balance exercises help retrain the brain to maintain stability in different situations.
Habituation exercises – These aim to reduce the sensitivity to motion that causes dizziness.
These exercises are tailored to the individual’s specific condition and symptoms, helping them regain confidence and function in daily activities.
- 2. Postural and Strengthening Exercises
Strengthening the muscles around the neck, trunk, and lower body can help improve overall balance and stability, reducing the likelihood of falls or further vertigo episodes. Additionally, your therapist may work on postural alignment to prevent dizziness caused by certain body positions or movements.
A 2015 review published in the Journal of Vestibular Research concluded that VRT significantly improved balance and reduced dizziness in patients with vestibular disorders.
A systematic review from 2017 found that VRT is especially effective for those with chronic vestibular disorders, leading to substantial improvements in quality of life, dizziness, and balance.
Research has also demonstrated that the Epley maneuver for BPPV can result in 85-90% success rates in resolving symptoms after just a few sessions.
These studies showcase how beneficial non-invasive treatment techniques can be in managing vertigo symptoms, offering long-term benefits without the need for medication and the best part – no side effects!
Prevention Strategies for Vertigo
While physiotherapy is an excellent treatment for vertigo, prevention is key to avoiding recurrent episodes. Here are some strategies that can help reduce the risk of vertigo:
- Regular Exercise
We know how crucial exercise is for all aspects of physical and mental health and guess what? Physical activity is also helpful in managing and preventing vertigo. Who knew? Activities like walking, yoga, and balance exercises can reduce the likelihood of vertigo episodes by keeping the vestibular system functioning optimally.
- Posture Awareness
Maintaining proper posture, especially while sitting or standing, reduces the strain on the neck and vestibular system. Simple adjustments, such as avoiding sudden head movements or lying down quickly, can also prevent triggering vertigo symptoms.
- Avoiding Triggers
Certain head movements can trigger vertigo. Identifying and avoiding these movements or using strategies to limit their occurrence (e.g., sleeping with the head elevated) can help prevent episodes.
- Hydration and Diet
Dehydration can sometimes exacerbate dizziness. Drinking enough water and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall well-being, including balance function. Chronic dehydration is a known risk factor and takes more than an extra glass of water – but rather a sustained commitment to get the suggested 2-3L of water each (depending on your size and exercise levels).
In summary, Physiotherapy offers a highly effective, evidence-based approach to managing and preventing vertigo. Take the prevention steps above and if you are still having issues, do not hesitate to get in touch with your local Physio, just make sure they are trained in vestibular techniques.
