Vertigo & BPPV Treatment
Vertigo, or the sensation of spinning, can be an unsettling and debilitating condition that affects many people.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common type of vertigo and can occur when small calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the wrong part of the ear canal. This can cause dizziness and can be triggered by specific head movements.
Causes of Vertigo/BPPV: There are several causes of vertigo/BPPV, including:
Inner ear problems: The inner ear is responsible for maintaining balance and equilibrium, so any issues with the inner ear can lead to vertigo.
Head injury: Trauma to the head can cause damage to the inner ear, which can lead to vertigo.
Migraines: People who suffer from migraines may experience vertigo as a symptom.
Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics and antidepressants, can cause vertigo as a side effect.
Treatment for Vertigo/BPPV:
The good news is that vertigo/BPPV can be treated successfully with physiotherapy. The most common treatment for vertigo/BPPV is the Epley Manoeuvre, a specific set of head movements that help to move the calcium crystals back into the correct position in the inner ear. This is a simple and effective treatment that can be performed by our physiotherapists at Physio on Bayside.
In addition to the Epley Manoeuvre, physiotherapy can also involve other exercises to help improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. These exercises may include:
Gaze stabilization exercises: These exercises help to improve the ability to maintain focus on a specific object while moving the head.
Balance exercises: These exercises help to improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.
Strengthening exercises: These exercises help to strengthen the muscles used for balance and can improve overall physical function.
If you are experiencing vertigo/BPPV, contact us for an appointment with our experienced Physiotherapists and walk out feeling better.