Vertigo or dizziness can be caused by damage or disease of the vestibular system.
The vestibular system is the part of the inner ear and brain that is involved in processing information to control both balance and eye movement. This may cause vertigo, dizziness and balance issues. Other symptoms can include muscle tension, headaches, fatigue and anxiety.
Vestibular rehabilitation is a form of physiotherapy that retrains the brain to process the information correctly. This is done through specific exercises and in some cases, manoeuvres to alleviate symptoms.
Conditions that can cause vertigo & dizziness include:
- Meniere’s Disease
- Cervicogenic vertigo
- Labyrinthitis
- Vestibular Neuritis
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (B.P.P.V.)
- Poor balance due to aging
- Some diagnosed stable central lesions
How do I book?
You don’t need a referral to attend for physiotherapy, however it is best that you have been previously assessed by your G.P. at some stage (either at this or a previous episode).
You can book online to see Karuna Pradhan or Germaine Mallin, our vestibular physiotherapists. If you have not attended the clinic for vertigo treatment before, book ‘Initial assessment (vestibular rehab)’ which is a one hour appointment.
If booking by phone, make sure that you specify that the appointment is for vertigo treatment so that the sufficient time is booked.
If you have been referred by your G.P. or consultant, don’t forget to bring your referral letter and also bring a list of any medications you are taking (both prescribed and over the counter).
What does the treatment involve?
Your physiotherapist will take a detailed history of your condition and will then use a series of tests to diagnose what is causing your vertigo, dizziness or balance problems.
Treatment will start immediately and the type of treatment will depend on the diagnosis may include specific exercises and in some cases manoeuvres such as the Epley manoeuvre. Occasionally the tests carried out at the first appointment may cause a brief increase in symptoms.
Because of this, we advise that you bring someone with you in case you do not feel well enough to drive home.
How long will it take?
That depends on the diagnosis.
75% of patients require three appointments or fewer. Sometimes the exercises may initially cause an increase in symptoms as the brain and body adjust to the new movements. As you practise the exercises, your symptoms should decrease and your balance should improve.
Please do make contact with us if you are experiencing any side effects.
Call 018063030 or book an appointment online to see Germaine so she can help sort your vertigo.
Useful Link:
www.menieres.org.uk