Is Vertigo causing you to be off-Balance?

Many folks experience vertigo, most commonly a sense of spinning. Vertigo is the sudden sensation that you are unsteady or that your surroundings are moving. It’s rarly serious except when it increases the chances of falls, symptoms can come and go, and commonly last less than one minute. The problem occurs in the vestibular system in the inner ear chambers. The fluid contained within these chambers, and the tiny hair follicles tell you “where you are in space.” The hair cell position changes mechanical force into electrical nerve action. If any particle interferes with this action, vertigo (or dizziness) can occur.

Occasionally, tiny calcium carbonate crystals that are produced in the gelatinous membranes form, which are sensitive to gravity. If these crystals are displaced and interfere with the action of the fluid and hair cells, the electrical response carried to the brain via the vestibular nerve, or 8th cranial nerve is abnormal and you experience vertigo. The crystals position determines which head or body positions are bothersome. Rotating your head, “yes and no” actions, rolling over in bed, bending over, walking and suddenly stopping or turning can all be impacted. Difficulty focusing your eyes, nausea and vomiting, lightheadedness and general loss of balance are the most common problems.

After an evaluation by a physical therapist, to determine which positions of the head or body aggravate the symptoms, a few simple maneuvers lying on a table can usually bring rapid relief. A home exercise program is sometimes included to help with eye focusing and gaze, postural stability and overall improvement of functional abilities.
           
Vertigo can be very debilitating to one’s lifestyle, ability to work and care for your own and family needs. 80% of patients experience relief of symptoms after 3-6 treatment sessions. We have well trained therapists on staff who can help treat your symptoms.

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