When we hear the words “physical therapy” we often think of post-operative rehab, or rehab for a specific part of the body, such as the knee or shoulder. What we don’t often think about is physical therapy treatment for vertigo.
But the truth is that physical therapy is a great way to treat vertigo. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo, which is a false sensation of spinning. If you’ve been diagnosed with BPPV or are worried you’ve begun experiencing symptoms, don’t be alarmed— a physical therapist can offer a simple, non-invasive solution.
Best of all, it’s easy and effective:
- You don’t need a prescription from your doctor to undergo treatment
- It takes minimal time on your part – usually just a few visits
- You will be able to learn the tools needed to manage vertigo on your own
- It works for about 90% of patients
Vertigo Symptoms
Dizziness and vertigo are sometimes grouped together synonymously, as many people experiencing vertigo often classify their symptoms as dizziness. However, vertigo incites the specific feeling of you or the room spinning uncontrollably.
BPPV is usually triggered by specific changes in the position of your head, such as when you tip your head up or down, when you lie down, or when you turn over or sit up in bed. It occurs most frequently in those ages 50 and older, and is more common in women than in men.
The signs and symptoms of BPPV can come and go. What’s more, episodes of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo can disappear for some time and then recur. This makes it even more important to arm yourself with the tools necessary to manage it long-term, giving you the ability to alleviate the symptoms at the exact moment when they occur.
Vertigo Physical Therapy Treatments
If you’re feeling the spinning sensation of vertigo or have been diagnosed with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, we recommend coming in to see a physical therapist for vertigo therapy treatment sooner rather than later.
In many cases, time is of the essence. Patients who have waited longer than six months to begin treatment experience lower recovery rates. Common vertigo therapy treatments include the following maneuvers and exercises:
- Appiani & Casani Treatments where head is held in specific positions for minutes at a time
- BBQ Roll where head and body roll to complete a 360-degree rotation
- Brandt-Daroff Exercise where head is angled while moving from upright-seated to lying-down position
- Cawthorne Head Exercises designed to move the head and eyes while completing simple activities
- Epley Maneuver using a pillow to angle torso while turning head
- Foster Maneuver where head movements are paired with a half somersault
- Horizontal Hybrid Maneuver involving head, neck and torso rotations
- Gans Repositioning Maneuver involving the shaking and tilting of head in mostly lying-down positions
- Semont Maneuver involving the shaking and tilting of head in mostly seated positions
Over time, and with treatment, you should see some of the following results:
- Improved balance and mobility
- Increased comfort with physical activity
- Reduced fear of falling or hurting yourself
Contact Us Today
At Clear Choice Physical Therapy, we work one-on-one with patients to develop unique treatments for their unique needs. We treat all kinds of issues, including vertigo. Contact us at Clear Choice Physical Therapy to set up an appointment and get non-invasive vertigo therapy treatment in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
