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Vertigo and Vestibular/Balance Dysfunction
The vestibular system is a sensory system in the inner ear responsible for balance and spatial orientation. It has two main components: the semicircular canals and the otoliths. The semicircular canals detect rotational movements, such as the dizziness you feel when spinning in a chair, while the otoliths detect linear accelerations, like the sensation of moving in an elevator.
How the Vestibular System Works
The vestibular system works in close coordination with the visual system (eyes) and the somatosensory system (muscles and joints). Together, these three systems function like the three legs of a stool—if one is impaired, the others must work harder to maintain balance. The brain processes input from all three systems to control posture and keep the body stable in space.
Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo occurs when the semicircular canals are disrupted. Each inner ear contains three canals filled with a thick fluid called endolymph. Normally, these canals are clear of particles, but sometimes tiny crystals from the otoliths can break loose and float in the canals, leading to dizziness and imbalance.
Common Causes Of Vertigo & Vestibular/Balance Dysfunction
There are a variety of causes for vertigo and balance dysfunction. The causes can either be central or peripheral. Central vertigo is related to structures involving the brain or spinal cord. Peripheral vertigo is typically caused by problems in the inner ear, which is far more common.
Common causes of vertigo include:
Positional changes in head
Looking down to tie shoes
Sitting up from bed
Direct trauma to head and/or neck
Whiplash following sports injury or car accident
Concussion
Common causes of vestibular and balance dysfunc Common causes of vestibular and balance dysfunction include:tion include:
Head Injuries
Falls
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Stroke
Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
Mal de Debarquement Syndrome
Vestibular neuritis
Meniere’s disease
Peripheral vertigo
Central vertigo
Common symptoms include:
Dizziness
Nausea
Difficulty sitting/standing upright
Difficulty walking
Falls (possibly frequent)
How Physical Therapy Helps You
Most people who have experienced dizziness will avoid it at all costs. Once someone knows what activities causes dizziness, like lying completely flat on their back, they will tend to avoid it. Fortunately, most people who experience dizziness and/or difficulty with balance can get rid of it. A physical therapist can evaluate you to determine the cause of your symptoms to improve quality of life.
Following the initial evaluation, your physical therapist will determine and discuss the cause of your complaints. Together, you and your physical therapist will set goals specific to your needs and create a plan of care. Your plan of care will help you accomplish your goals and get you back to what you enjoy doing!
Do not let dizziness and worries of falling limit you from doing activities you love. Contact us to get a free phone consult and schedule an initial appointment if you’re suffering from vertigo or vestibular and balance dysfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the vestibular system?
The vestibular system is located in the inner ear and is responsible for balance and spatial orientation. It includes the semicircular canals, which detect rotational movement, and the otoliths, which sense linear acceleration such as moving in an elevator.
What causes vertigo?
Vertigo often occurs when tiny crystals from the otoliths become dislodged and float in the semicircular canals, disrupting balance signals. It can also be triggered by head trauma, whiplash, or concussion.
What is the difference between central and peripheral vertigo?
Central vertigo is caused by issues in the brain or spinal cord, while peripheral vertigo comes from problems in the inner ear. Peripheral vertigo is far more common and often linked to conditions such as vestibular neuritis or Meniere’s disease.
What symptoms suggest vestibular or balance dysfunction?
Common symptoms include dizziness, nausea, difficulty sitting or standing upright, unsteady walking, and frequent falls. These may be triggered or worsened by certain head movements or positional changes.
How can physical therapy help with vertigo and balance problems?
A physical therapist can evaluate your symptoms to identify the cause and design a treatment plan. Therapy often includes specific exercises to retrain your balance system, reduce dizziness, and help you return to daily activities with confidence.