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Vertigo
Regain stability and confidence at GTA Spine. Our physiotherapists specialize in diagnosing and treating vertigo, so you can move through life without fear of falling.
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What is
What is Vertigo
Vertigo is a condition that affects your ability to maintain equilibrium, causing dizziness, unsteadiness, or difficulty standing and walking. It can interfere with daily activities and increase the risk of falls. Vertigo may stem from issues with your inner ear, nervous system, or musculoskeletal system.
Common Causes
Common Causes
Vertigo can arise from a variety of factors, including:
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Inner ear problems (e.g., vestibular dysfunction, Meniere’s disease)
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Head injuries or concussions
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Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis)
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Age-related changes in balance mechanisms
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Medications affecting the inner ear or brain function
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Muscle weakness or joint stiffness
Symptoms of Vertigo
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it may indicate vertigo:
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Dizziness
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Feeling unsteady or off-balance
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Blurred vision during movement
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Nausea or vomiting
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Difficulty walking in a straight line
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Frequent falls or fear of falling
Symptoms
When to See a Specialist
Consult a specialist, such as a physiotherapist, when you’ve had the following experiences or observations:
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Your daily life is impacted by dizziness or imbalance.
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You’ve had a recent injury, surgery, or illness affecting your mobility.
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Your symptoms persist for more than a few days without improvement.
Seeking professional help early can prevent complications and help you regain control of your movements.
When to See a Specialist
How Can a Physiotherapist Help Treat Vertigo?
At GTA Spine, our physiotherapists take a comprehensive approach to addressing vertigo by:
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Assessment: Thoroughly evaluate your balance, strength, and coordination.
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Personalized Exercises: Creating a tailored exercise program to improve stability and reduce symptoms.
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Vestibular Rehabilitation: Targeting inner ear dysfunction with specific techniques.
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Mobility Training: Helping you regain confidence in walking and performing daily activities safely.
Our goal is to restore your independence and reduce the risk of falls.
How Can a Specialist Help?
At GTA Spine, we get to the root cause of your balance disorder and help eliminate the problem with a personalized treatment plan. Book with us today to start your pain-free life.
Diagnosis of Vertigo
Our physiotherapists at GTA Spine will perform a comprehensive diagnosis, such as:
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Review your medical history and symptoms.
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Physical examination to assess muscle strength, reflexes, and coordination.​
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Specialized tests such as postural assessments, gait analysis, or vestibular testing.
Diagnosis
Treatment Options
​Treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause but may include:
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Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): A structured program to retrain your balance system.
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Strengthening Exercises: Focused on improving lower body strength and joint mobility.
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Walking Aids: Using assistive devices like canes or walkers when necessary.
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Lifestyle Modifications: Education on safe movement strategies and environmental adjustments to prevent falls.
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At GTA Spine, we provide evidence-based treatments tailored to individual needs.
Treatment Options
Prevention Tips​
Reduce your risk of developing vertigo or falling by:
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Staying active with balance-focused exercises like yoga or tai chi.
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Wearing proper footwear for stability and support.
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Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
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Keeping your home free of tripping hazards (e.g., loose rugs, clutter).
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Scheduling regular check-ups for hearing and vision health.
Prevention Tips
FAQs About Vertigo
Can vertigo affect people of all ages?
Yes, while it is more common in older adults due to age-related changes, vertigo can affect individuals of any age, especially after injury or illness.
How long does treatment for vertigo take?
The duration depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Many individuals see improvement within weeks to months of starting therapy.
What should I do if I feel dizzy while walking or standing?
If you experience dizziness, it’s important to stop what you’re doing and sit down to prevent falls. Avoid sudden movements and seek medical attention if the dizziness persists or worsens.
Is it safe to exercise with vertigo?
Yes, under the guidance of a physiotherapist, exercise is often a key part of treatment. Specific exercises designed to improve strength, coordination, and vestibular function can enhance balance and reduce symptoms.
Can vertigo go away on its own?
Some balance problems, like mild cases of dizziness or vertigo, may resolve on their own. However, persistent or recurring symptoms typically require professional evaluation and treatment to ensure proper management and recovery.
FAQs
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