Vestibular Rehabilitation in Okotoks: What Causes Dizziness?
Dizziness can stem from various factors, either in isolation or combination. Common causes include:
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Issues with the inner ear (vestibular system)
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Visual motion sensitivity
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Concussion
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Upper neck dysfunction (e.g., after a whiplash injury)
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Low blood pressure or cardiovascular system problems
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Neurological dysfunction
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Medication side effects
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Psychogenic factors such as anxiety or depression
What are the Symptoms of a Vestibular Disorder?
Symptoms of vestibular disorders may include:
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Dizziness or a spinning sensation (vertigo)
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Feeling off-balance
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Difficulty focusing in visually dynamic environments
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Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
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Nausea
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Headaches
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Eye movement abnormalities, such as pulsating or difficulty stabilizing gaze
What is the Vestibular System?
The vestibular system is a sensory network essential for balance and movement. Located in the inner ear, it comprises three semi-circular canals filled with fluid and sensors that detect head and body movements. This system integrates with vision and body position data to maintain balance.
Disruptions caused by aging, infections, concussions, or other factors can lead to dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, and balance issues.
What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, or BPPV?
BPPV is a vestibular system condition affecting how the inner ear detects head movement. It is a common cause of vertigo and creates a spinning sensation triggered by specific head and body movements. Often accompanied by nausea and balance issues, BPPV is most common in older adults, individuals with migraines, and those with prior head injuries. Fortunately, it is treatable with proper diagnosis and care.
How Can Physiotherapy Help with Dizziness?
Physiotherapy offers effective treatment for dizziness caused by the vestibular system, concussion, and neck dysfunction. A physiotherapist will:
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Perform assessments to diagnose the root cause of dizziness.
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Provide vestibular rehabilitation to encourage adaptation and neuroplasticity, restoring balance and reducing symptoms.
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Teach specific exercises and lifestyle modifications to enhance recovery.
What is involved in a Dizziness Assessment with a Physiotherapist?
A comprehensive dizziness assessment includes:
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Health history and symptom review
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Neurological and vascular evaluations (e.g., pulses and blood pressure)
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Biomechanical neck assessment
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Positional testing to identify dizziness triggers
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Balance and gait analysis
What is Involved with Vestibular Treatment and Rehabilitation?
Vestibular rehabilitation starts with a thorough assessment. Based on findings, a personalized treatment plan may include:
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Education about the vestibular system and condition-specific insights
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Repositioning techniques for BPPV
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Eye/head stability exercises
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Balance retraining
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Movement habituation to reduce sensitivity to motion
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General physical activity guidance for overall strength and fitness
Tips for Success with Vestibular Treatment
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Embrace movement that causes mild to moderate dizziness; it promotes brain adaptation.
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Be prepared for initial symptom aggravation during assessment, which typically resolves within 24 hours.
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Arrange safe transportation after sessions if needed.
Meet Mikayla - Our Amazing Vestibular Physiotherapist in Okotoks
Mikayla MacDonald provides vestibular physiotherapy to help individuals manage dizziness, balance challenges, and vertigo. She has completed rigorous training grounded in the latest research and techniques in the field, ensuring her patients receive effective, evidence-based care. Mikayla is committed to helping her clients feel confident in their movements and get back to doing what they enjoy most.