Physical therapy works wonderfully to treat all types of peripheral vertigo like BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo), Vestibular Neuritis and Labrinthitis.
What to Expect:
All new patients will receive a full vestibular exam including occulomotor tests, balance testing and BPPV special tests. We also perform tests to check the health of cervical ligaments and arteries. Once a physical therapy diagnosis is established treatment will consist of canalith repositioning maneuvers (if indicated), vestibular habituation exercises, balance exercises and basic strength exercises.
Your physical therapist will also typically perform soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization to the cervical spine as we have found that many people with vestibular issues also have neck pain and/or limited range of motion. Some people report less dizziness after getting their neck loosened up.
We will also provide a home program including practical advice to follow at home to prevent falls.
We will typically see patients 1-3 times a week until their symptoms are 80-100% resolved and they are independent with their home exercise program. This ranges from 1-6 weeks depending on condition and severity.
Physical therapy is most helpful for people who have vertigo induced by movement. Most of these patients will eventually fully recover. Most sources report that physical therapy is not indicated for Chronic vertigo caused by conditions such as Menier’s disease, vestibular migraine or any other type of vertigo not related to movement. While it’s true that physical therapy can’t cure these conditions there are certain exercises that could improve the patient’s quality of life.
We will evaluate these patients and prescribe a home exercise program that fits their abilities and needs. We typically see these patients 1-2 times a week for 2-4 weeks or until they are independent in their home exercise program.