Vertigo Explained: Proven Treatments That Are Right for You

What Is Vertigo and Why Is It So Common in Adults?

Vertigo is the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when no actual movement is occurring. In adults over the age of 65, the most common cause of vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). 

BPPV happens when small crystals in the inner ear, known as otoconia, move out of place.

Otoconia are tiny, calcium crystals found in your inner ear. They help you keep your balance. 

When you move your head, these crystals shift. This sends signals to your brain about your position and movement. If the otoconia become dislodged, it can cause dizziness or balance problems.

Older adults and people who have had BPPV before are more likely to have it again.

Fortunately, BPPV is very treatable once it is properly identified.

Warning Signs That Vertigo May Be Worsening

BPPV often starts suddenly. You may feel intense spinning after moving positions. This can happen when you lie down, roll in bed, bend forward or look up.

With this kind of vertigo, the spinning feeling usually lasts less than a minute. It often gets better over a few days, even if no treatment is given.

However, there are important red flags that warrant medical attention:

• Vertigo symptoms are getting worse instead of improving
  • Symptoms last longer than 60 seconds
  • Increasing frequency or severity of episodes
  • Gaze stability exercises to improve visual control
  • Exercises to decrease sensitivity to motion
  • Balance training to improve safety and mobility

If these signs are present, further medical evaluation is recommended to rule out causes beyond simple positional vertigo.

Physical Therapy Treatments for Vertigo

Vestibular Rehabilitation is a specialized form of physical therapy designed specifically to treat vertigo and balance disorders. 

An assessment helps determine if symptoms are caused by an outer problem, like BPPV or vestibular weakness, or a central issue, like a concussion or stroke.

When vertigo is caused by BPPV, the treatment aims to move the misplaced crystals back to their right spot in the inner ear.

These techniques are called Canalith Repositioning Treatments (CRT). The most commonly used CRT is the Epley Maneuver, which is highly effective and can eliminate vertigo in approximately 80–90% of patients, often in just one or two treatments.

For patients whose vertigo is not caused by BPPV, vestibular rehabilitation may include:

Each treatment plan is individualized based on the patient’s symptoms and functional goals.

How Long Does Therapy Take to Work?

Vestibular rehabilitation is highly effective. Patients with BPPV often experience dramatic improvement after just one properly targeted CRT session. 

Patients with vestibular weakness, often after an inner ear infection, usually see good improvement in 1 to 3 weeks. This is especially true if they stick to their home exercise program.

How Do I Find Care for My Vertigo? 

Outpatient physical therapy services at Trinity Health require a prescription from a medical doctor. The physical therapist performs a detailed evaluation and ongoing assessments at every visit. 

Dealing with vertigo or other balance issues? Get the care you need from our expert physical therapists. 

Request an Appointment Today