Vertigo vs Vestibular Hypofunction
Vertigo is a sensation of spinning, often caused by an alteration in the vestibular system. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo that occurs when the crystals in the inner ear become loose and get stuck in the viscous fluid. The crystals cause a disruption in the canals in the inner ear, disturbing the signals being sent to the brain. This causes vertigo, specifically with a change in head position.
Vestibular hypofunction often occurs after sustained periods of vertigo from BPPV, vestibular neuritis or a concussion. The body maintains balance by receiving signals from three different systems: vestibular system, visual system and proprioception systems in the feet and neck. If one of these systems is not functioning adequately a patient can experience symptoms of dizziness, being off-balance and/or fatigue.
Vestibular Therapy
Physiotherapists can perform various maneuvers and tests to help accurately diagnose and treat different forms of vertigo and dizziness. Following an episode of vertigo, neuritis or a concussion, the vestibular system often needs re-training. Physiotherapy can help to restore function and movement using balance, oculomotor, vestibular integration and gait training exercises to re-train the nervous system. This can help restore the integration of the vestibular, proprioceptive and visual systems so that all messages going to the brain are synchronized, therefore helping the patient with their symptoms. The goal of your treatment plan is to improve any deficits that were identified. This, in turn, will improve your ability to function in activities of everyday living, reduce your risk of falling and ultimately, improve your quality of life.
Allie Horwood
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