Physio for Vertigo: Treatment, Exercises, Causes and FAQs

Dizziness and vertigo can make you feel restless, disrupt your focus, and affect your quality of life. At Magnus Medical Centre, we have expert physio for vertigo to help you minimise the false sense of motion caused by this condition. 

Table of content

• What is vertigo?
• What are the symptoms of vertigo?
• What triggers vertigo attacks
• Physiotherapy for vertigo
• Exercises for vertigo
• Can vertigo be caused by stress?
• Can sinusitis cause vertigo?
• How long does vertigo last without treatment?
• Conclusion

What is vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation that makes you feel like your head is spinning in circles. It can make you feel dizzy. It can be due to several health conditions rather than a disease itself.

What are the symptoms of vertigo?

Here are the most common symptoms of vertigo:

• Nausea and vomiting 
• Dizziness
• Balance issues
• Hearing loss in one or both ears. 
• Tinnitus 
• Headaches
• Motion sickness
• Nystagmus.

What triggers vertigo attacks

The causes of vertigo may vary from person to person and may include:

• Migraines headaches
• Certain medications, including some antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs, and anti-inflammatories. 
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Head injuries
• Prolonged bed rest
• Ear surgery
• Low blood pressure 
• Ataxia
• Syphilis
• Hyperventilation 
• Shingles in or near your ear
• Brain diseases
• Acoustic neuroma 

Physiotherapy for vertigo

If you are struggling with vertigo, you can opt for physio for vertigo. Physiotherapy is an evidence-based solution for managing vertigo and dizziness. Physiotherapy treatment for vertigo will be customised according to your health condition and may include:

• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy

Specific exercises designed to boost the function of your vestibular system. It can reduce symptoms like imbalance, spinning sensations, and motion sensitivity. 

• Postural assessment

If you are in Glenroy, then you can opt for physio Glenroy at Magnus Medical. A physio will look at your posture as this could be contributing to your vertigo or dizziness. A physiotherapist can help to improve your posture and movement patterns to reduce the strain on your neck and vestibular system.  

• Strengthening and balance exercises

Strengthening and balance exercises may help improve stability and reduce the fall risk. These exercises help build confidence for daily tasks.  

• Manual therapy

Gentle mobilisation and manipulation of neck joints can identify cervicogenic dizziness caused by poor neck mechanics. 

• Soft tissue techniques

Muscle tension in the shoulders and neck can exacerbate vertigo or dizziness. Soft tissue techniques can help release tight muscles and reduce associated discomfort. 

Exercises for vertigo

Gaze stabilisation exercise

• Focus on the object at your eye level. 
• Keep your eyes focused on the object while turning your head side to side. 
• Start turning your head slightly faster. 
• Repeat it for 1 minute. 
• To switch this exercise, you can move your eyes up and down. 

Romberg exercise

• Stand upright with a wall behind you and your feet together while your arms rest at your sides. 
• Close your eyes for 30 seconds. 
• You can also raise your chin up and down with your eyes closed. 

Foster maneuver 

• Kneel down; your hands should be on the floor, and raise your head facing toward the ceiling and wait until dizziness passes before proceeding. 
• Lower your forehead until it is on the floor. 
• Turn your head so your face is toward your left elbow and hold this position for 30 seconds. 
• Raise your head until it is level with your back and shoulder, and hold this position for 30 seconds. 
• Raise your head until it is fully upright and return to the starting position. 
• Repeat this exercise 3 to 4 times. 

Can vertigo be caused by stress?

When you experience stress, the body releases stress hormones, called cortisol. These hormones prepare us to respond to danger or stress. However, they also affect the body’s functions, heart rate, blood pressure, and nervous system function. The physiological impact of stress often overlaps with the symptoms of dizziness or vertigo, such as feelings of imbalance and lightheadedness. 

Can sinusitis cause vertigo?

Yes, sinusitis can lead to vertigo. Since the sinuses are located close to the inner ear, inflammation can affect the delicate balance mechanism within the ear. It can make you lose your balance, which can lead to a sensation of spinning or dizziness. This is called sinus vertigo. 

How long does vertigo last without treatment?

It depends on its underlying cause. Spinning episodes may last from a few seconds to several minutes. However, the overall condition can last anywhere from a few days to several months before it goes away on its own. 

Conclusion 

If you are struggling with dizziness or vertigo, you can opt for physiotherapy treatment. You can get in touch with Glenroy Medical Centre doctors at Magnus Medical.