Comprehensive Treatment and Care Plans for Vertigo: Regaining Balance and Stability through Vestibular Physical Therapy

Vertigo is a distressing condition that affects millions of people worldwide and is taxing. Vertigo conditions include spinning, dizziness and abnormal eye movements. With vestibular physical therapy, individuals suffering from vertigo can find relief.

The journey towards vertigo resolution begins with a thorough evaluation. This evaluation aims to diagnose the type and source of vertigo. Diagnosing peripheral and central vertigo is crucial. It guides the treatment approach.

Vestibular Evaluation Physical Therapy

At LVL Up Physical Therapy, we take our time in understanding our patient's symptoms. We strive to help patients achieve improvement in their well being. We start with an examination of symptoms first.

We employ differential diagnosis techniques to ensure we identify your specific condition. Then we define your vestibular physical therapy treatment.

Peripheral Vertigo Treatment

If the vertigo symptoms are peripheral, the treatment plan includes canalith repositioning maneuvers and an at Home Exercise Program. Specialized head movements, called canalith repositioning maneuvers, help with inner ear disorders. They involve turning your head in a series of controlled movements to alleviate vertigo and dizziness.

The canalith repositioning procedure offers relief for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a condition characterized by brief but intense episodes of dizziness and spinning, also known as vertigo. Moving your head can trigger this sensation.

Tiny canalith particles, called Otoconia, cause BPPV. The particles originate from the balance-regulating part of the inner ear. As these particles move into the semicircular canals, they create sensitivity to motion and induce vertigo symptoms.

Evidence based results demonstrate that after one or two treatments, 80% of people see improvement in their vestibular function.

The Home Exercise Program complements the maneuver's effects, helping recovery and stability. Follow up visits ensure clearing of the peripheral vestibular condition through in clinic vestibular retraining.

Regular visits allow us to track progress and make adjustments. The duration varies based on the severity and frequency of vertigo episodes. It also depends on how long the individual has been dealing with the condition.

Central and Inner Vestibular Pathology

You may need a more complex treatment plan if your symptoms arise from central or inner vestibular pathology. We may refer you to an Audiologist for further examination. Specialty testing can confirm diagnosis and allow us to focus on a treatment plan. We will create a comprehensive plan of care aimed at reducing symptoms and improving function.

Cervicogenic Dizziness (Vertigo)

This is a condition which generally involves a combination of increased tension and poor posture of the upper back and neck, causing pain, and producing symptoms of dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, and imbalance or unsteadiness. This can be assessed and diagnosed by a skilled and knowledgeable physical therapist. Treatments for this condition involove a combination of vestibular retraining interventions and exercises, combined with postural training, and exercises to improve stature and endurance of the upper back and neck, to reduce stress to the area, therefore reducing tension, and relieving pain and vertigo like symptoms. 

Vestibular Physical Therapy Exercises

Vestibular therapy exercises reduce symptoms. They require time and repetition to achieve results. Often, these exercises become a part of the patient's home exercise routine.

Manual therapy is another critical component of the treatment plan. It involves continuous monitoring of symptoms to ensure no peripheral vertigo is present. We also address any stress and tension in the cervical and upper back regions.

Unlike peripheral vertigo, central and inner vestibular conditions may require a more extended treatment period. This ranges from several weeks to a few months. These conditions need patience and perseverance as the body adapts and heals. The body gradually regains its sense of balance and stability.

Individualized Care: Key to Success

One of the most vital aspects of vertigo treatment is the individualized approach to care. Each person's condition is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient. Tailoring treatment plans to suit the specific needs and circumstances of each patient is essential.

Beyond Vertigo Resolution: Balance Training and Habituation Exercises

Once vertigo symptoms subside, a well-rounded approach to rehabilitation ensures improved balance. Balance training and habituation exercises play a crucial role in retraining the brain's response to stimuli. They promote a more stable posture and reduce the risk of future vertigo episodes.

Embracing Visual Vestibular Training

The visual vestibular system also plays a significant role in balance and orientation. Visual vestibular training involves exercises and activities that integrate visual input with the vestibular system. This further enhances stability and reduces the likelihood of vertigo recurrence.

Get Better with Vestibular Physical Therapy Near You

Vertigo is a challenging condition that impacts individuals' lives. Appropriate treatment and care plans offer relief and restore balance and stability. Getting rid of vertigo requires compliance to the plan, being patient, belief that you can get better, and working with healthcare pros.

Embracing a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy and practicing balance and habituation exercises empowers patients. With repetition and patience, you will overcome vertigo and enjoy a life of stability and wellbeing. Personalized care ensures better outcomes in the journey towards recovery. With the right approach, individuals can move beyond vertigo, regain their balance and embrace a more fulfilling life.

At LVL UP Physical Therapy, we are physical therapy vestibular specialists, and we seek to provide the best care to our patients.