That spinning sensation or unsteady feeling when you move is more than just annoying and can make even the simplest of daily tasks feel overwhelming.
It could also be a sign that your vestibular system (the part of your inner ear and brain that helps control balance and eye movements) is out of sync, and that’s where vestibular physiotherapy can play a huge role in helping you feel more clear-headed.
Why am I feeling dizzy?
Dizziness can mean different things to different people. For some, it feels like the room is spinning while for others, it’s more of a foggy feeling. You might even feel nauseous, lightheaded, or unsteady on your feet. These sensations can be caused by a wide range of things including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) which is one of the most common causes of vertigo, triggered by specific head movements
- Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis which is inflammation of the inner ear, often due to a viral infection
- Vestibular migraines or painful headaches
- Mal de Débarquement Syndrome which is that “still-on-the-boat” feeling after travel
- Stiffness or tightness in the neck (cervicogenic dizziness) which can disrupt your balance
- Post-concussion symptoms or persistent dizziness after an illness
While dizziness symptoms can be incredibly disruptive, you don’t have to put up with them or rely on pain medication to get by. Getting assessed by a physio is a smart first step so you can start feeling like yourself again and get back to living life at your best.
How can vestibular physiotherapy help?
While some of our Life Ready Physio + Pilates clinics have physiotherapists with specialised vestibular training, all of our physiotherapists can help manage neck tension, postural imbalances and movement issues, along with other common vestibular symptoms like BPPV and cerviogenic dizziness.
If your condition needs more specialised input, we’ll help direct you to the most appropriate physiotherapist, but there’s plenty we can do to get started straight away.
To help alleviate dizziness and pain, a session with a physio may include:
- A thorough assessment of your symptoms, eye movements, neck function and balance
- Repositioning techniques to help treat vertigo
- Balance retraining exercises to improve stability
- Neck treatment and manual therapy (alongside techniques like dry needling) if your dizziness is related to tension or stiffness
- Education and strategies to help manage your symptoms in your daily life
Do I need a referral for vestibular physiotherapy?
The good news is no, so you can book in directly with us and be seen at your earliest convenience. If more specialised support is needed, we’ll point you in the right direction, so it’s always best to mention your symptoms to us when you make your booking.
Get back on your feet
Simply phone your closest Life Ready Physio + Pilates clinic and mention vestibular physiotherapy to our admin team and let us help you start to feel steadier again.
We accept all private health funds, MVA, DVA or Worker’s Compensation referrals, and Medicare plans.
