Vertigo is like being on a carnival ride that never stops - except you're not having fun. You feel like you're spinning or moving when you're actually sitting or standing still. It's like your body is playing a cruel joke on you. But fear not, because manual therapists (including physio’s osteo’s and chiro’s)  are like the ride operators who can help bring the carnival ride to a stop and get you back on solid ground.

So what exactly is vertigo?

Vertigo is a type of dizziness that is characterised by the feeling of spinning or whirling, even when you are not moving. It is usually caused by a problem with the inner ear or the vestibular system, which is responsible for your sense of balance. Some of the common causes of vertigo include:

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is a condition where small calcium crystals called otoconia in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the wrong part of the ear. This can cause brief episodes of vertigo that are triggered by certain head movements.
2. Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: This is an inflammation of the inner ear that can cause sudden, severe vertigo that may last for several days or weeks. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and difficulty walking.
3. Meniere's Disease: This is a condition that affects the inner ear and can cause episodes of vertigo that can last for hours or even days. It is often accompanied by ringing in the ears, hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.

How do manual therapists help treat vertigo?

Manual therapists can help to improve the function of the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. A manual therapist who specializes in treating vertigo will work with the patient to assess their symptoms and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs.

One of the most common techniques used by manual therapists to treat vertigo is called the Epley maneuver. This technique involves a series of head movements that can help to reposition the calcium crystals in the inner ear that are often responsible for causing vertigo. By repositioning these crystals, the manual therapist can help to alleviate the symptoms of vertigo and restore the patient's sense of balance.

In addition to the Epley maneuver, manual therapists may also use other techniques to treat vertigo, such as balance training exercises, visual retraining exercises, and relaxation techniques. These techniques can help to improve the patient's balance and spatial awareness, as well as reduce their feelings of anxiety and stress.

It is important to note that physiotherapy is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan for vertigo. Depending on the underlying cause of the condition, the patient may also need to take medication or undergo other types of medical treatment.

So, if you're experiencing dizziness or vertigo, don't worry - we’re here to help.

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