Vertigo Treatment Adelaide
Core Physio & Pilates offers a dedicated and systematic approach to assessing and addressing vertigo and dizziness.
Understanding Vertigo & Dizziness
Vertigo involves sensations of spinning or feeling off-balance, often stemming from issues in the inner ear, where structures and nerves detect our body’s positioning. Conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, migraines, and low blood pressure are among the common causes of dizziness.
The Inner Ear’s Role in Balance
Our inner ear contains fluid-filled canals and nerves that detect head movements. This data is sent to the brain, enabling adjustments in our body and vision to maintain balance. When this system functions well, changes in head position feel natural and steady. However, disruptions in the inner ear may lead to dizziness, unsteadiness, and vertigo.
Common Vertigo Symptoms
Spinning
Tilting
Swaying
Unbalanced
Pulled in one direction
Physiotherapy Assessment for Vertigo & Dizziness
Detailed History
- Discussing dizziness onset, frequency, and intensity
- Reviewing any relevant medical background
Physical Examination
- Assessing cervical spine functionality
- Examining positional changes and eye movement effects
- Checking balance and stability
Note: While no GP referral is necessary, any prior medical test results will support our assessment process.
Understanding BPPV
BPPV is a prevalent cause of vertigo, originating from displaced crystals within the inner ear’s canals. These dislodged crystals disrupt the ear’s balance sensors, resulting in dizziness even with slight head movements. A targeted physiotherapy assessment identifies the specific canal affected, guiding a precise approach to alleviate vertigo symptoms and support optimal recovery.
BPPV Treatment Approach
The most common treatment option for BPPV involves performing controlled head movements, known as an “Epley manoeuvre” or “canalith repositioning manoeuvre”, to guide the displaced crystals back to their appropriate location. These maneuvers are often beneficial within one to two sessions, reducing dizziness symptoms and enhancing stability.
Vestibular Treatment and Rehabilitation for Long-Term Balance Improvement
For clients experiencing prolonged vertigo episodes, vestibular rehabilitation exercises may promote improved balance and reduced fall risk. This rehabilitation process focuses on:
Desensitising the vestibular system to reduce motion sensitivity
Supporting the brain and nervous system’s adaptation to any vestibular irregularities
Improving balance through progressive exercises
Habituation movements to reacquaint the body with movement
Eye retraining exercises to enhance coordination with head movements
Balance training to build steadiness
What to Bring to Your Appointment
A list of current medications and their purposes
Any recent scan or test results
Locations We Offer Physio for Vertigo
Vertigo Resources
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FAQ's for Vertigo
What is vertigo and how can physiotherapy help?
Vertigo is a type of dizziness that makes you feel as though you or your surroundings are spinning or moving. It is often caused by inner ear or vestibular system problems. Physiotherapy, specifically with a Vestibular Physiotherapist, can help assess the cause of the dizziness and provide a plan of management. For some conditions a quick resolution is possible while for others Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is essential. your Physiotherapist following a specific assessment can help retrain your balance system, reduce dizziness, and improve mobility and confidence in daily activities.
What conditions can cause vertigo?
Common causes of vertigo include Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease, migraines, concussion, and age-related balance issues. A physiotherapist can assess the root cause and develop a tailored treatment plan.
How do I know if my dizziness is vertigo?
Vertigo typically feels like spinning, swaying, or a loss of balance. If your dizziness is triggered by head movements, changes in position (e.g., rolling in bed), or lasts longer than a few seconds, it may be vertigo. A physiotherapist can perform specific tests to confirm the diagnosis.
What is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)?
VRT is a specific form of physiotherapy that uses targeted exercises to improve balance, reduce dizziness, and strengthen the connection between the brain and inner ear. Treatment may involve gaze stabilisation, retraining the normal positional reflexes and balance training. different conditions will require a different approach so seeking an assessment with a Vestibular Physiotherapist is the start to recovery.
How many sessions will I need for vertigo physiotherapy?
The number of sessions depends on the underlying cause of your vertigo. Some people experience significant relief after just a couple sessions (especially for BPPV), while others may require a structured rehabilitation program over several weeks.
How quickly can physiotherapy relieve vertigo symptoms?
For BPPV, some people notice an immediate reduction in dizziness after repositioning manoeuvres. For other vestibular conditions, improvement may occur gradually over 2–6 weeks of therapy as your balance system adapts.
Can vertigo come back after treatment?
Yes, vertigo can sometimes recur—especially conditions like BPPV. However, your physiotherapist will equip you with exercises and strategies to manage future flare-ups and reduce their frequency or severity.
Do I need a doctor’s referral for vertigo physiotherapy?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a physiotherapist for vertigo. However, if you plan to claim through Medicare, DVA, NDIS, or private health insurance, a referral from your GP may be required.
What should I expect at my first physiotherapy appointment for vertigo?
At your first appointment, your physiotherapist will take a full history of your symptoms, perform balance and eye-movement tests, and may use positional tests (like the Dix-Hallpike test) to identify the cause of your vertigo. From there, they will begin treatment, which may include hands-on techniques and specific vestibular exercises.
A Commitment to Quality Care
Core Physio & Pilates offers a dedicated and systematic approach to assessing and addressing vertigo and dizziness. Located in Adelaide, we provide personalised care designed to support clients in regaining their comfort and stability.
- Power Laura, Murray Katherine, Szmulewicz David J. Characteristics of assessment and treatment in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) 08 April 2020