How to Balance Vertigo in Your Life

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or moving when you are not actually moving. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including inner ear problems, head injuries, and medications. Vertigo can be very disorienting and can make it difficult to perform everyday activities.

If you or anyone you love and care for is struggling with ongoing vertigo, Jason LaMendola, PT, and the team of experienced physical therapy experts here at TLC Physical Therapy can help. Through targeted exercises and workarounds, we can show you how to manage and avoid your vertigo so that you can confidently function again.

What are the symptoms of vertigo?

The symptoms of vertigo can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some common symptoms include:

• A spinning sensation

• A feeling of imbalance

• Nausea and vomiting

• Sweating

• Dizziness

• Difficulty concentrating

• Difficulty walking

What causes vertigo?

Some of the most common causes of vertigo include:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): BPPV is a condition that causes crystals in the inner ear to move out of place. This can cause a spinning sensation when you change your head position.

• Ménière's disease: Ménière's disease is a condition that affects the inner ear. It can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.

• Head injuries: Head injuries can damage the inner ear or the nerves that connect the inner ear to the brain. This can cause vertigo.

• Medications: Some medications, such as antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs, can cause vertigo as a side effect.

How is vertigo diagnosed?

If you are experiencing vertigo, your doctor will likely ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a physical examination and order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to rule out other causes of your vertigo.

How is vertigo treated?

The treatment for vertigo will depend on the underlying cause. However, some common treatments include:

• Medications: Over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine, can help to relieve the symptoms of vertigo. Prescription medications, such as meclizine or scopolamine, may be necessary for more severe cases.

• Epley maneuver: The Epley maneuver is a physical therapy maneuver that can be used to treat BPPV. It involves positioning the head and body in a specific way to move the crystals back into place.

• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve balance and coordination in people with vertigo.

How can physical therapy help with vertigo?

Physical therapy can be a very effective way to manage vertigo. A physical therapist can help you develop a personalized treatment plan that includes exercises to improve balance, coordination, and strength. Physical therapy can also help you to learn how to avoid activities that trigger your vertigo.

To top it off our team of physical therapists practices functional therapy, which teaches you to excel in your day-to-day tasks while battling with vertigo.

If vertigo is an ongoing problem for you, contact us at one of our New York City offices to learn more about how we can help