Feeling dizzy? It might be vertigo

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What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness that makes you feel like you or your surroundings are spinning, tilting, or moving—even when you're still. It can happen suddenly and may last seconds, minutes, or longer.

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What does it feel like?

People with vertigo often say:

• “The room feels like it’s spinning around me.”

• “I feel off-balance or like I’m swaying.”

• “When I move my head or get out of bed, everything shifts.”
   

Common Causes

Vertigo is usually related to problems in the inner ear, which helps control balance. Causes include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): triggered by certain head movements.

• Ménière’s Disease: linked to fluid build-up in the inner ear.

• Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: usually caused by a viral infection affecting the inner ear.

• Migraines: some people experience vertigo with or without a headache.
   

Other Symptoms

Vertigo can also come with:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Trouble walking or balancing

• Sensitivity to movement

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or hearing changes

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What Causes Vertigo?

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): tiny crystals in your inner ear get displaced.

• Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis: inflammation from a virus can affect balance nerves.

• Neck-related (cervicogenic) dizziness: muscle tension or joint dysfunction in the neck.

• Other: migraines, Ménière’s disease, or head injuries.

 

Your osteopath will work alongside your GP or specialist if medical testing or referrals are needed.

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How can we help?

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1. Thorough assessment

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Vertigo can have many different causes and effects everyone differently. During your apointment we take a thorough history to understand your story and symptoms. We will examine your balance and co-ordination, eye movement and neck range of motion. 

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2. Hands on treatment

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Each treatment is tailored to your specific presentation and symptoms. Your treatment may include :

• Gentle manual therapy for the neck and spine

• Positional techniques such as the Epley maneuver (for BPPV)

• Balance and coordination exercises

• Advice on posture and movement habits

• Breathing and relaxation techniques for stress-related symptoms

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3. Ongoing management

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We provide ongoing support and education to help you stop your symptoms, self-manage and identify and help you avoid any triggers of your vertigo. These can include:

• Moving slowly, especially when changing positions

• Keep well-hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol

• Practice relaxation or breathing exercises to calm the nervous system

• Keep your environment well-lit and clutter-free to avoid falls

• Follow your treatment plan, and ask questions if unsure

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