Vertigo and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

Vertigo is the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning, even when you are standing or sitting perfectly still. While some episodes may be brief, vertigo can significantly impact your confidence, balance, and ability to safely perform everyday activities. 

In addition to a spinning sensation, vertigo may cause: 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Sweating 

• Abnormal eye movements 

• Ringing in the ears 

• Difficulty walking due to imbalance 

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

One of the most common causes of vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV occurs when tiny crystals in the inner ear become displaced, causing short episodes of spinning when your head moves in certain positions such as rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending down. 

At POST Westover Hills, our physical therapists perform a comprehensive evaluation to understand your symptoms, identify potential causes, and determine how vertigo may be affecting your balance and fall risk. During your evaluation, we may ask questions such as: 

• When did your vertigo begin? 

• What movements or activities trigger your symptoms? 

• How long do episodes typically last? 

• Have you experienced vertigo before? 

• Do you experience hearing changes, ringing in your ears, nausea, or other symptoms? 

Evaluation and Treatment for Vertigo

Based on your evaluation and personal goals, your physical therapist will develop an individualized treatment plan designed to help reduce symptoms and restore your confidence with movement. Treatment may include: 

• Specialized head and neck movements to treat conditions such as BPPV 

• Balance exercises to improve stability and reduce fall risk 

• Exercises that help your brain adapt to changes in the vestibular system 

• Vision and eye movement exercises 

• Training to improve tolerance to visually stimulating environments 

Even after vertigo improves, some people continue to experience dizziness, imbalance, or difficulty with certain activities. Physical therapy can help address these lingering symptoms and provide strategies to make daily tasks safer and easier. 

The goal of vestibular physical therapy is to help you feel steady, regain confidence, and return to the activities that matter most to you.