"Out-thinking and Out-maneuvering Dizziness, Dysequilibrium, and Vertigo"

Do you get dizzy regularly? Does it happen when you lay down or roll over in bed? Do your eyes feel funny when you turn your head or body quickly? Have you fallen because of this or do you just get sick to your stomach? Do you ever get blurred or double-vision when you turn your head? Do you have difficulty reading signs or books because of this? Can you control your symptoms or do you feel completely out of control?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, chances are you could benefit from a vestibular evaluation. The vestibular system refers to the relationship between your inner ear, your brain, your eyes, and your sense of balance and movement. If your inner ear is not communicating with your brain correctly, it can throw your vision and balance off considerably, especially when moving or changing positions. This often creates vertigo, the illusion of spinning or moving, and can make you feel dizzy or even make you fall. The good news is that vertigo (specifically BPPV or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) is often easily correctable with specific head movements. Usually within just a few sessions. Other vestibular problems take a little longer (4-6 weeks), but again are very treatable with simple head and eye exercises that once learned can be practiced regularly at home until you are better.

PLEASE NOTE: It's important to differentiate dizziness and vertigo from the signs and symptoms of a stroke. Remember the acronym F.A.S.T. (Face, Arm, Speech, Time). If your symptoms are accompanied by changes in your face (drooping), arm (weakness), speech (slurring), then it is TIME to call 9-1-1 right away. Otherwise, your primary care physician can diagnose if you have vertigo or a vestibular problem that needs physical therapy and refer you to us appropriately.