Physical Therapy For VertigoIn Austin, San Antonio, & surrounding cities
Vertigo is the sensation of the room spinning around you. Our physical therapists are trained in how to identify and treat the cause of vertigo. If your vertigo is from your vestibular system (inner ear), physical therapists can help to reduce and resolve these symptoms within just a couple of visits! Seeking physical therapy for vertigo can help to identify the cause and prevent the return of your vertigo symptoms. Physical therapy will include resolving your dizziness, improving weaknesses and tension in muscles surrounding the neck, and improving balance.
What Causes Vertigo?
Vertigo can be caused by a variety of factors. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is an imbalance within the inner ear where calcium deposits block the inner ear’s communication with the brain. This causes a spinning sensation when changing positions from sitting to standing or rolling in bed. Vertigo can be caused by an inner ear infection, a migraine, a tumor blocking the signaling in the inner ear (acoustic neuroma), or even a stroke. Your physician and physical therapist will help you discover the cause of your symptoms, so don’t hesitate to make an appointment!
Exercises for Vertigo
Vertigo treatment varies based on the cause of symptoms. If your vertigo can be improved by exercise, your physical therapist will set up an individualized program for you. This will typically include head, neck, and eye movements to reduce your spinning sensation, neck mobility exercises, and balance exercises if these areas need work. You may also need neck and upper extremity strengthening and stretching exercises. If you have BPPV, your physical therapist will teach you specific whole-body maneuvers to reduce your symptoms quickly.
Physical Therapy Solutions for Vertigo
What is the best treatment for vertigo? Your physical therapist will work with your other healthcare providers to ensure that your treatments are comprehensive and prevent the return of vertigo. This may include medications, tests to determine the cause, and a physical therapy program that improves your symptoms so you can return to your favorite activities. You can seek treatment from a physical therapist who specializes in vertigo as your first provider. They will be able to determine the cause and refer you to another specialist if needed.
