Ever stood up too quickly and felt the world spin? Or maybe, you've experienced a sensation of movement even when you're perfectly still? That unsettling feeling is called vertigo. Imagine being on a merry-go-round that doesn't stop. Not fun, right?
The hallmark symptom is a spinning sensation, but there's more:
You might wonder, "Why is this happening to me?" It's often due to problems with the inner ear. Imagine a finely-tuned instrument getting disrupted. Issues can include:
This is the most common type. Picture a record player. If the needle (your ear's balance mechanism) gets disturbed, the record (your surroundings) seems to spin. Causes include:
Here, the issue lies in the brain or spinal cord. Think of it as a computer glitch. Potential culprits can be:
Like an old, rusty swing set, our systems wear out over time. Vertigo is more common as we age.
Ever read the side effects of drugs? Some can cause or worsen vertigo.
Just as a cold can knock you off your feet, infections can affect balance.
If you're feeling like a dizzying top, a doctor might:
These can treat symptoms or underlying causes. Imagine them as the brakes on that non-stop merry-go-round.
Ever heard of the Epley maneuver? It's like a dance for your inner ear, helping to reset it.
You might be wondering, "Why bring physiotherapy into the picture?" It’s simple: Physiotherapy can target the root cause of the dizziness, especially when the culprit is within the vestibular system.
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
This is the shining star in treating vertigo through physiotherapy. It's a customized exercise-based program that aims to alleviate both primary and secondary problems caused by vestibular disorders. Imagine recalibrating a compass; that's what VRT does for your balance system.
Manual Techniques
Sometimes, the dizziness arises from neck problems. Here, physiotherapists can use manual techniques to align and reduce tension. Think of it as smoothing out the kinks in a garden hose, restoring its flow.
Your first session will typically involve a detailed assessment. The therapist might:
Based on these findings, they'll tailor a treatment plan. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. Just as every snowflake is unique, so is every vertigo case.
Sometimes, simple steps at home can help. Think of it as giving your inner equilibrium a cozy blanket. Techniques include:
Vertigo is a dizzying experience, but understanding and addressing it can make the world stop spinning. Remember, the world might seem like it's on a tilt-a-whirl, but with the right treatment, you can find your balance again. Our physiotherapists at Moov Physio are trained to assess Vertigo and provide proper treatment and education on how to manage and get rid of that sensation.
.png)
.png)
.png)
