Understanding Vertigo And Its Treatments
Everyone has felt dizzy or off balance at one point or another. However, when those feelings don't go away, it can be unsettling and a sign of something more serious. Here's what you need to know about vertigo, what causes it, and how vertigo rehabilitation can help.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is an inner ear disorder that causes dizziness, loss of balance, and a feeling of spinning, swaying, or disorientation that can last for a few seconds to several days, affecting your ability to function normally. Vertigo can be caused by various conditions, but it does not go away on its own. Therefore, seeking medical treatment to manage the symptoms and prevent permanent damage is vital.
What Causes Vertigo?
Vertigo has many potential causes, including:
- Migraines
- Head trauma, like a concussion
- Neck pain
- Stroke
It may also be caused by a viral infection in the inner ear called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This type of vertigo typically occurs abruptly with sudden movements, such as turning over in bed or bending down to tie your shoe. The symptoms usually last for less than a minute but can recur several times throughout the day.
What Are Treatment Options for Vertigo?
The correct treatment option for vertigo is based on the underlying cause but can include the following:
- Canalith repositioning maneuvers
- Prescription medication
- Surgery
Vertigo can also be treated with a specific type of physical therapy called vertigo rehabilitation.
What Is Vertigo Rehabilitation?
Vertigo rehabilitation is an effective treatment for managing vertigo symptoms through exercises designed to retrain your brain on how to process signals from your inner ear correctly so you can move without feeling dizzy or unbalanced. A physical therapist will teach you exercises specific to your needs that will gradually increase in difficulty over time as you progress in recovery from vertigo episodes.
These exercises are designed to strengthen muscles used for balance while helping you gain better control over minor body movements, such as shifting weight between feet while standing still or walking slowly across a room without falling over or experiencing nausea due to dizziness associated with vertigo episodes.
If you are experiencing any signs of vertigo, it is important to seek medical attention right away so it can be properly diagnosed and treated before any further damage occurs. Numerous treatments are available to help patients live their lives free from the disorientation and spinning sensations associated with this condition.
Contact a local vertigo rehabilitation service to learn more.
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