Vestibular physiotherapy at CARE

All you need to know about vertigo and vestibular physiotherapy

Vertigo isan illusion of movement or a sensation of displacement in space, always disturbing and disabling.

The causes are varied, and it is essential to understand them in order to be able to remedy them effectively.

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about vertigo, and how vestibular physiotherapy can be a solution.

Why do I feel dizzy?

Vertigo occurs when there is a conflict between the different types of information involved in balance, or when there is a disturbance in the central or subcortical processing of this information.

The most frequently encountered pathologies are :

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): this type of vertigo is caused by the displacement of small crystals in the inner ear, known as otoliths, leading to short-lived dizziness when the head is moved.

• Peripheral vestibular deficit: infection of the inner ear or transient vascular damage causes a sudden reduction in information from one or both vestibules, leading to dizziness and balance disorders.

• Ménière's disease: pressure-related pathology leading to recurrent and unpredictable episodes of balance and hearing loss.

• Presbyvestibulia: a progressive age-related reduction in vestibular function.

• PPPD (Persistent Perceptual Postural Dizziness): persistent postural-perceptual dizziness, characterized by chronic instability or a sensation of pitching.

• Neurological causes : many central disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or stroke, can cause vertigo.

What are the symptoms of vertigo?

Symptoms often include a sensation of spinning or pitching, balance problems, but also nausea and/or vomiting, headaches, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vision problems (or oscillopsia) and fatigue.

Dizziness can be brief or last several hours, and its frequency can vary.

When should you worry about vertigo?

Vertigo should always be reported to a doctor, so as to rule out any central cause requiring urgent medical attention.

How can vestibular physiotherapy help you?

Vestibular physiotherapy is particularly effective in treating vertigo related to inner ear disorders. This approach includes :

Initial assessment :

Physiotherapists begin with a thorough evaluation of vestibular function to understand the nature and cause of vertigo.

This assessment may include balance tests, eye movement tests using specific equipment, and questionnaires on symptoms experienced.

Vestibular rehabilitation exercises :

Depending on the initial assessment and in agreement with the prescribing physician, the physiotherapist proposes different exercises which may be :

- Exercises to stabilize the gaze during head movements, an essential element of vestibular function.

- Dwelling exercises to reduce asymmetry between the two ears.

- Substitution exercises to compensate for vestibular insufficiency by stimulating other balance sensors.

- Proprioception, walking and ADL (activities of daily living) exercises.

- In the case of BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), otolith release maneuvers will be suggested, depending on the affected canal. In the case of recurrent BPPV, desensitization exercises involving the repetition of specific movements that usually provoke vertigo may be suggested, in order to gradually reduce the vertiginous response.

Follow-up and adjustment :

Regular follow-up is essential to adjust exercises and techniques in line with the patient's progress. This personalized approach ensures that treatment remains effective and tailored to individual needs.

Conclusion

Vertigo can have a major impact on quality of life, but understanding its causes and treating it effectively is essential.

Vestibular physiotherapy offers effective solutions for managing and reducing vertigo. If you suffer from frequent or persistent vertigo, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan.

For more information on vestibular physiotherapy, please visit our website and book an appointment with our specialists.