Caboolture Physical Therapy Centre has significant experience and proven success in treating vertigo, particularly when associated with a condition called Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is the sensation of dizziness or the feeling that your surroundings are moving around you. One of the most common causes of vertigo is BPPV, a condition affecting the inner ear. Other factors that can lead to vertigo include cardiovascular issues, spinal problems, inner ear disorders, and other medical conditions.
Understanding BPPV and Its Causes
BPPV is characterised by intense episodes of dizziness, usually lasting 10-20 seconds or longer, typically triggered by head movements such as changing positions in bed. The exact cause of BPPV is not entirely understood, but it is believed to be caused by calcium crystals becoming dislodged and floating within the semi-circular canals of the inner ear. This disruption sends mixed balance signals to the brain, resulting in vertigo.
Symptoms of Positional Vertigo
BPPV, or positional vertigo, causes dizziness when the head moves in specific directions. Those affected often experience dizziness and nausea when rolling over in bed or looking upwards, along with light headedness and balance issues. BPPV can sometimes arise without any clear cause but is often triggered by head trauma, respiratory infections, or airplane travel, which can disturb the inner ear’s normal function.
Do You Need a Diagnosis to See a Physiotherapist for Vertigo?
A formal diagnosis is not required to see our physiotherapists for vertigo. If you experience vertigo symptoms, it is highly recommended to seek a physiotherapist for an assessment. They can evaluate your symptoms, provide appropriate treatment, and refer you to a specialist if necessary to investigate other potential causes.
Understanding and Treating Positional Vertigo
Vertigo can be a distressing and common experience, often resulting from various conditions. Physiotherapists at Caboolture Physical Therapy Centre are well-equipped to treat certain types of vertigo, including BPPV. The inner ear’s vestibulocochlear nerve plays a crucial role in conveying head movement information to the brain. When this process is disrupted, it can lead to the brain misinterpreting signals, causing vertigo.
What to Expect from BPPV Treatment
Physiotherapy for BPPV targets the semi-circular canals in your ear using specific manoeuvres that reposition your head to clear the canals. While this treatment can initially feel uncomfortable, as it may temporarily worsen your vertigo, it is often highly effective and can, in many cases, immediately eliminate symptoms. You may also need to modify certain behaviours or positions temporarily and continue with self-guided exercises at home.