Vertigo is the feeling that you or the room are spinning. Dizziness can also mean light-headedness or unsteadiness. One of the most common causes is a problem in the inner ear, the vestibular system, which helps control balance.
Vestibular physiotherapy is highly effective for many of these problems. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) in particular often improves with simple repositioning treatment in one to three sessions.
Common signs and symptoms of vertigo & dizziness
- Short spinning episodes when turning in bed, lying down or looking up (BPPV)
- Constant dizziness or unsteadiness after a viral illness
- Dizziness after concussion or head injury
- Nausea with head movements
- Feeling off-balance in busy or visually complex places
How we help
We take a detailed history and test eye movements, positional responses and balance to work out the cause. BPPV is treated with repositioning manoeuvres such as the Epley manoeuvre. Other conditions are treated with gaze stabilisation, habituation and balance exercises.
If any test suggests a cause outside the inner ear, our neurologist reviews you promptly.
Treatments we use
- Canalith repositioning (Epley and related manoeuvres)
- Gaze stabilisation exercises
- Habituation exercises
- Balance and walking training
- Fall prevention
Recovery and what to expect
BPPV often settles within one to three treatments. Other vestibular conditions usually improve over four to eight weeks of exercise.
Vertigo & Dizziness: frequently asked questions
What causes vertigo when I turn over in bed?
This is usually BPPV, where tiny crystals in the inner ear move into the wrong canal. It is very treatable with repositioning manoeuvres.
When is dizziness an emergency?
Seek emergency care if dizziness comes with sudden weakness, numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, double vision, severe headache or chest pain.
Do I need medication for vertigo?
Some medicines help in the first days, but long-term use can slow recovery. Vestibular rehabilitation treats the cause.