Vestibular rehabilitation is designed to improve balance and decrease dizziness through an exercise-based program led by a specially trained physical therapist.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is characterized by brief episodes of vertigo (dizziness) due to rapid changes in head position, including the following:
- turning the head
- getting in and out of bed
- looking up toward the ceiling
- reaching down to pick up something from the floor
Dizziness of this kind is caused by displacement of otoconia, often referred to as “crystals” or “ear rocks,” from the utricle into one of the semicircular canals. This can lead to symptoms where there is a sensation that either you or the room is in motion. Symptoms may also include periods of unsteadiness and nausea.
BPPV is the most common and treatable cause of vertigo. It can occur without any known cause in both men and women in all age groups. Additionally, BPPV, conservatively, affects 64 out of 100,000 people.
While waiting to be treated by a trained clinician, do your best to stay well hydrated with plain water. Eliminate your intake of fluids that can lead to dehydration such as alcohol or caffeine. If you are having challenges with your balance, wear solid, well-fitting, closed-toe shoes.
Many causes of dizziness exist including labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis, cervicogenic dizziness, Meniere’s disease, among others. Your physical therapist will work to root out the cause of your dizziness to implement the most appropriate individualized treatment for you.