Vertigo and Dizziness
What is Vertigo and Dizziness?
Vertigo and dizziness are balance-related conditions that significantly disrupt daily life. While often used interchangeably, these terms describe distinct experiences:
- Vertigo: A sensation of spinning or movement, even when you are stationary. It is often caused by inner ear issues, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Ménière’s disease.
- Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or faintness, which may stem from circulatory issues, inner ear problems, or nervous system disorders.
Both conditions may lead to a heightened risk of falls, nausea, and reduced quality of life, necessitating timely intervention and care.
Causes of Vertigo and Dizziness
Dysfunction in the vestibular system, responsible for maintaining balance.
Trauma, such as whiplash or concussions, affecting balance control.
Strain on the neck and shoulders impacting the vestibular system.
Decline in vestibular function and balance control over time.
Low blood pressure or reduced blood flow to the brain.
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Symptoms of Vertigo and Dizziness
- A spinning or swaying sensation.
- Unsteadiness or loss of balance.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Difficulty focusing or blurred vision.
- Lightheadedness or fainting spells.
- Sensitivity to head movements or specific positions.
Searching for Relief from Vertigo and Dizziness?
Experiencing vertigo or dizziness can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. At ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab, we offer comprehensive and personalized care to address the root causes of your condition and help you regain your balance and confidence.
How We Treat Vertigo and Dizziness
- Physiotherapy
- Massage Therapy
- Acupuncture
- Naturopathic Medicine
Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of effective treatment for vertigo and dizziness. Our experienced physiotherapists use a variety of techniques to help restore balance and reduce dizziness.
- Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT):
VRT is a specialized form of physiotherapy designed to improve the function of the vestibular system (the balance system in your inner ear). This therapy involves specific exercises that target gaze stabilization, balance training, and the adaptation of the brain to vestibular changes.- Gaze Stabilization Exercises: Focused on improving your ability to focus on stationary objects while moving your head. These exercises help to strengthen the eye and neck muscles, thus reducing dizziness.
- Balance Training Exercises: Designed to challenge your balance and encourage proper proprioception (awareness of body position). These exercises may include standing on one leg, walking along a straight line, and other activities that challenge your equilibrium.
- Habituation Exercises: These exercises are aimed at reducing symptoms through repeated exposure to movements or positions that trigger dizziness. Over time, this helps desensitize the brain to these triggers, thus reducing the frequency and intensity of symptoms.
- Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers (CRM):
For conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), where small crystals in the inner ear become dislodged, canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver) are highly effective. These techniques involve specific head and body movements that guide the crystals back to their correct position, alleviating symptoms of vertigo. This procedure is non-invasive and typically provides immediate relief from BPPV. - Neck and Postural Exercises:
Poor posture or tension in the neck and upper back can contribute to dizziness or vertigo. Physiotherapists use a combination of stretching, strengthening, and postural correction exercises to relieve tension in the neck, improve posture, and restore balance. This approach is especially effective for individuals whose dizziness is related to muscle tightness or tension in the neck or upper back. - Proprioception and Coordination Training:
Proprioception refers to the body’s ability to sense its position in space. Physiotherapists use exercises such as balance boards, foam pads, and other tools to improve this ability and strengthen stabilizing muscles. This not only helps reduce dizziness but also improves overall coordination, thus reducing the risk of falls. - Education and Self-Management Techniques:
Our physiotherapists provide education on lifestyle modifications that can help minimize triggers for vertigo and dizziness. This may include tips on hydration, managing triggers like stress or fatigue, and strategies for handling dizziness episodes safely.
Massage therapy is often used as an adjunct treatment to alleviate muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back that may contribute to dizziness. By targeting trigger points and muscle stiffness, massage can reduce discomfort and improve circulation, which in turn can enhance balance and alleviate symptoms of dizziness.
- Neck and Shoulder Focus: Special techniques are used to release tension in muscles that may be straining the vestibular system. This can help ease symptoms of dizziness related to poor posture or muscle stiffness.
- Stress Relief: Many individuals with vertigo or dizziness also suffer from stress, which can worsen symptoms. Massage therapy promotes relaxation, reducing overall stress and improving balance.
Acupuncture is a holistic treatment approach that can assist in managing vertigo and dizziness. By targeting specific acupoints, acupuncture may help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and restore balance. It is particularly helpful for individuals whose dizziness is related to poor circulation or inflammation in the inner ear.
- Inner Ear Health: Acupuncture can stimulate the areas of the brain and inner ear that are responsible for balance, helping to improve overall function and alleviate dizziness symptoms.
- Promoting Relaxation: Acupuncture is also effective in reducing anxiety or stress, which can be a common trigger for vertigo.
Naturopathic treatments focus on using natural remedies to restore balance and optimize health. For individuals experiencing vertigo or dizziness, a naturopathic approach may involve addressing underlying causes like vitamin deficiencies, dehydration, or circulation issues.
- Herbal Supplements: Certain herbs, such as Gingko biloba, are known to improve circulation and reduce dizziness.
- Hydration and Electrolyte Balance: Dehydration or an imbalance of electrolytes can contribute to dizziness, and a naturopath may recommend dietary adjustments or supplements to improve hydration and balance.
- Dietary Changes: A naturopathic doctor can help assess your diet and recommend adjustments to reduce inflammation, support inner ear health, and address any underlying health concerns that may contribute to dizziness.
Benefits of Treatment at ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab
- Personalized Treatment: We provide a customized care plan tailored to your specific symptoms, ensuring the most effective approach for your condition.
- Multimodal Approach: By combining physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, and naturopathic treatments, we offer a comprehensive and holistic solution for vertigo and dizziness.
- Long-Term Relief: Our goal is to not only alleviate symptoms but also provide lasting relief by addressing the root causes of vertigo and dizziness.
- Safe and Effective Care: We utilize evidence-based treatments that are safe and effective for managing dizziness and vertigo, helping you regain control of your balance and quality of life.
Take the First Step Toward Better Balance
If vertigo or dizziness is affecting your life, don’t wait to get help. ActiveCare Physiotherapy & Rehab is here to guide you through recovery and help you regain your confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey to recovery.