Balance, Vertigo, and Dizziness are related but distinct symptoms that affect a person’s ability to maintain physical equilibrium. They can stem from various conditions affecting the vestibular system (inner ear), central nervous system, or other systems like vision and proprioception.
Here’s an overview of each and how a Physical Therapist (PT) can help:
Balance Issues
Definition: Difficulty maintaining posture and stability during standing, walking, or other movements.
Causes:
- Aging
- Muscle weakness
- Neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, stroke)
- Vestibular dysfunction
- Poor vision
- Peripheral neuropathy
PT Role:
- Balance training (e.g., single-leg stance, dynamic balance tasks)
- Strengthening exercises (especially for legs and core)
- Gait training with or without assistive devices
- Postural control and alignment
- Fall prevention education
Vertigo
Definition: A false sensation that you or your environment is spinning or moving.
Causes:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Vestibular neuritis/labyrinthitis
- Meniere’s disease
- Migraines
- Central nervous system lesions (less common)
PT Role:
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT)
- Habituation exercises to reduce motion sensitivity
- Gaze stabilization exercises (e.g., VOR training)
- Education on symptom triggers and home exercises
Dizziness
Definition: A general term describing sensations such as lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling faint.
Causes:
- Cardiovascular (e.g., hypotension)
- Anxiety
- Inner ear dysfunction
- Medication side effects
- Dehydration
PT Role:
(if cause is musculoskeletal or vestibular):
- Treat cervicogenic dizziness (linked to neck problems)
- Coordinate with physicians if dizziness is systemic
- VRT for inner ear-related dizziness
- Breathing and relaxation strategies (if anxiety-related)
How PT Helps Overall:
- Customized treatment plans based on assessment
- Education on body mechanics and safe movement
- Improved functional mobility and independence
- Better confidence and reduced fear of falling
Would you like a simple home exercise program example for balance or vertigo?
