Can Physical Therapy Help with Vertigo?
Yes, physical therapy can be a highly effective treatment for vertigo, especially in cases where the condition is caused by inner ear problems, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Physical therapy for vertigo typically involves vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), a specialized type of therapy designed to help the brain and body adjust to balance disorders. VRT uses a combination of exercises aimed at improving the brain’s ability to process and integrate signals from the inner ear, eyes, and other sensory systems. This helps individuals regain their balance and reduce the sensation of dizziness that characterizes vertigo. The exercises focus on head movements and postural adjustments that improve coordination, strengthen balance, and decrease the intensity of vertigo episodes.
In addition to addressing the symptoms of vertigo, physical therapy helps patients develop strategies to manage and minimize dizziness in their daily activities. This approach includes balance exercises, habituation techniques (exposing the body to movements that trigger vertigo to build tolerance), and gaze stabilization exercises to improve the ability to track moving objects without dizziness. For patients recovering from vestibular disorders or surgery, physical therapy can also play a key role in restoring normal motion and preventing future episodes of vertigo. Overall, physical therapy provides long-term relief for many individuals with vertigo, helping them regain stability and improve their quality of life.
