How Physiotherapy Helps in Vertigo Treatment

How Physiotherapy Helps in Vertigo Treatment

Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a false sensation of spinning or rotational movement, either of the individual or their surroundings. It can be quite disorienting and is often associated with balance and coordination problems.

Vertigo can have various causes, and physiotherapy can play a role in its management, depending on the underlying condition. Here are some common causes of vertigo and how physiotherapy may be used in treatment:

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV):
   • BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo and often occurs due to the displacement of tiny calcium crystals (canaliths) in the inner ear.
   • Physiotherapy, specifically a technique called the Epley maneuver or canalith repositioning procedure, can be used to reposition these crystals to alleviate symptoms.
2. Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis:
   • These conditions involve inflammation of the inner ear structures responsible for balance and spatial orientation.
   • Physiotherapy may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises, which focus on adapting and compensating for the damaged inner ear, improving balance, and reducing dizziness symptoms.
3. Meniere’s Disease:
   • Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear condition that can lead to vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
   • Physiotherapy can help manage vertigo symptoms through balance training exercises and lifestyle modifications, but it may not directly treat the underlying cause.
4. Migraine-Associated Vertigo (MAV):
   • Some individuals with migraines may experience vertigo as a symptom.
   • Physiotherapy may be used in combination with other migraine management strategies to address balance and reduce dizziness.
5. Central Nervous System Disorders:
   • Certain neurological conditions, such as vestibular schwannoma, multiple sclerosis, or stroke, can lead to vertigo.
   • Physiotherapy may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to address balance and coordination issues associated with these conditions.
6. Cervical Spondylosis: Chronic degeneration of cervical spine with nerve compression also leads to dizziness

Physiotherapy treatment for vertigo often involves vestibular rehabilitation exercises, which are designed to improve the function of the vestibular system (inner ear and related structures) and the central nervous system’s ability to adapt to changes in balance. These exercises may include:

1. Habituation exercises: Repeated exposure to movements that trigger vertigo to help the brain adapt and reduce dizziness symptoms.
2. Gaze stabilization exercises: Focusing on a stationary object while moving the head to improve gaze stability and reduce dizziness during head movements.
3. Balance and coordination exercises: Activities aimed at improving overall balance and reducing the risk of falls.
4. Canalith repositioning procedures: Techniques like the Epley maneuver to treat BPPV specifically.

NOTE: Early Intervention and evidence based treatment under the supervision of a specialist helps the patient in a speedy recovery and enhanced quality of life

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