Vertigo and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

While dizziness remains one of the most commonly diagnosed issues by physicians in North America for aging populations, it is not a normal part of aging. Commonly referred to as "dizziness," issues with balance, vertigo, or spinning can actually arise from issues in the inner ear or the visual system. Dizziness or a lack of balance, can lead to issues that drastically affect quality of life. It can affect your ability to go to work, it can cause falls, or even make basic functional activities such as walking or getting out of bed seem difficult. 

Here is a video to help explain how the inner ear works: http://www.granvillephysio.ca/other-conditions.html

What is Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV)? 

BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo in the aging population. It causes dizziness or spinning with rapid positional changes such as moving/turning the head or getting up and down. BPPV gives you the feeling that the room or environment is spinning around you. 

BPPV is caused by problems in the structures of the inner ear. The inner ear has canals containing fluid that end in a structure called the cupula. When you move your head, fluid flows freely in your cupula and helps you determine where you are in space. BPPV is when small sand-like particles from the vestibule in your inner ear become detached and tell the fluid that you are in a different place than you actually are. It can cause vertigo immediately or shortly after head movement.

What is Vestibular Rehabilitation?

During Vestibular Rehabilitation the cause of dizziness/vertigo is determined by assessing eye movements, balance, posture, aggravating movements, or visual system influences. Information such as medical conditions, medications, and prior history are taken into account for their involvement in exacerbating the condition.

What kind of treatment can I expect during Vestibular Rehabilitation?

You will be given a customized treatment plan consisting of manual techniques within the clinic, at-home exercises, or home-care principles. During the assessment, symptoms may be exacerbated but your treating therapist will guide you through the process. 

If you are suffering from vertigo, spinning or dizziness and you are unsure of the cause, don't wait to get assessed. You will be surprised that such delicate structures of the inner ear can have such a profound effect on your quality of life.  Book today with Graville Physio's Inner Ear specialist Brendon Ip.