Towards the end of May, a large group of our Physiotherapists undertook an amazing vestibular training course on treating vertigo & dizziness. The course was run by Vanessa Simpson, a highly regarded Senior Neurological and Vestibular Physiotherapist from New Zealand!
Throughout the course, our Physiotherapists improved their assessment and management techniques of clients presenting with dizziness and vertigo-like symptoms. Through both theoretical and practical learnings, our Physios broadened their knowledge of the vestibular system and inner ear.
Vertigo has a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Dizziness (feelings of spinning, tilting or swaying)
- Loss of balance and light-headedness
- Nausea/Vomiting & Headaches
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, our Physiotherapists are able to help treat your condition! Your Physio will discuss the onset of your symptoms, and provide you with specific treatment techniques tailored to your symptoms to help alleviate them. Physical examination can include assessment of the cervical spine, testing positional changes and the effects on eye movement, as well as assessment of balance.
Clients who are experiencing long periods of Vertigo may require rehabilitation of the vestibular system. Vestibular rehabilitation aims to:
• Desensitise the vestibular system that detects motion so it is less sensitive
• Help our brain and nervous system compensate to vestibular damage
• Improve balance and reduce falls
Vestibular rehabilitation involves a progression of exercises to ‘retrain’ the nervous system, including:
• Habituation exercises that get the body and head used to moving again without dizziness
• Retraining the eyes to work correctly with head movement
• Balance training exercises
If you would like to have your dizziness or other vertigo-like symptoms assessed, book an appointment with one of our Physiotherapists today! There are trained Physios at all of our locations, who will get you on the path back to feeling your best.
