Dizziness is common — and often treatable
Dizziness and vertigo — the sensation that you or the room is spinning — are common, especially with age, and they can be frightening. They also increase the risk of falls, so they are worth taking seriously.
The encouraging news is that many causes of dizziness respond very well to physiotherapy, sometimes with rapid improvement.
A common cause: BPPV
One of the most common causes of vertigo is a condition called BPPV, where tiny crystals in the inner ear move out of place and confuse your balance system, triggering brief bouts of spinning — often when rolling over in bed or looking up.
BPPV can usually be assessed and treated with specific, gentle head-position techniques that reposition the crystals — many people notice a marked improvement quickly.
Other causes and vestibular rehabilitation
Not all dizziness is BPPV. Some people have ongoing balance or inner-ear issues that benefit from vestibular rehabilitation — a program of specific exercises that retrains the balance system over time.
A physiotherapist assesses which type of dizziness you have and tailors treatment accordingly, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
Why it matters for falls
Dizziness makes falls more likely, and the fear it creates can lead people to move less and lose strength. Treating the dizziness, and rebuilding steady confident movement, tackles both the cause and its knock-on effects.
If dizziness is new, severe, or comes with other symptoms such as weakness or trouble speaking, seek medical attention promptly to rule out other causes.
Care in your own home
For people whose dizziness makes travel difficult, home visit physiotherapy is ideal — assessment and treatment come to you, safely, in your own space.
Fletcher Physiotherapy assesses and treats dizziness and balance problems across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. To arrange a visit, call 0404 791 756.