Vertigo describes a false sensation of movement or spinning. It is often referred to as ‘dizziness’, which is a less specific term that can refer to anything from feeling light-headed or unsteady to a spinning sensation.
Common symptoms of vertigo include:
- dizziness
- a sense that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving.
- a loss of balance or unsteadiness
- nausea
- vomiting
- hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing), nausea, vomiting or a feeling of fullness in the ear
A feature of vertigo can be the sudden onset of symptoms.
For more information about vertigo and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Read here.
Physiotherapy and Vertigo
The first line of treatment by physiotherapists are canalith repositioning manoeuvres. These manoeuvres attempt to reposition the free-floating crystals of calcium carbonate. These manoeuvres are reported to be 80% effective the first time. Some people may need a further one or two sessions. For best results it is recommended to avoid head movements (as much as possible) and sleep in a semi-reclined position for 48 hours post physiotherapy.