Vertigo Physiotherapy in Calgary
Are you suffering from dizziness and vertigo? These conditions can be incredibly disruptive, affecting your daily life and well-being.
We have a solution. At Brentwood Physio in Calgary, we specialize in diagnosing and treating vertigo, including BPPV, neuritis, vestibular disorders, and concussion-related symptoms.
With years of experience, our certified vestibular physiotherapists have successfully helped countless patients, like you, regain their balance and return to their normal lives. We offer personalized treatment plans that can alleviate your symptoms as early as your first appointment.
Retake control of your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. Click here to book an appointment.
We have years of experience with helping patients, like you, recover and get back to their lives. Our certified vestibular physiotherapists in Calgary will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs and relieve symptoms in as early as your first appointment.
You want your life back. We can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Click here to book an appointment
What causes Vertigo?
Many people are unaware of what triggers vertigo. While it is more common in older adults, vertigo can affect individuals of any age. The most common causes include:
- Minor or major head trauma (such as a slight bump or a motor vehicle accident)
- Inner ear disorders
- Post-surgery complications
- Infections
- Certain diseases (such as Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis, or labyrinthitis)
There are also studies that suggest there might be a link between vertigo symptoms and a person’s preferred sleeping side. And for older adults, the natural degeneration of the vestibular system is a primary factor.
The unsettling part is that vertigo symptoms can appear suddenly: you could feel perfectly fine one day and wake up with severe dizziness the next.
Although the causes of vertigo can vary from person to person, the underlying mechanism remains the same. Inside your inner ear, there are tiny hairlike crystals called otoliths, located in an area known as the saccule and utricle. These crystals play a crucial role in maintaining balance. When they become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals of the inner ear, they can cause dizziness and imbalance. This condition is often diagnosed as vertigo or Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
Fortunately, effective treatments are available. Comprehensive vestibular physiotherapy can significantly aid in recovery and provide relief from these debilitating symptoms.
Your 1st Appointment with a Vertigo Physio
1. Background Analysis
Your initial visit begins with a comprehensive background analysis to understand your symptoms, their onset, and any factors that may influence them. We’ll also review your medical history, including any previous diagnoses or treatments related to vertigo or vestibular issues. This helps us create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
2. Neurological Analysis
Next, a detailed neurological assessment is conducted to identify the root cause of your vertigo. Using specialized tests, we evaluate your balance, coordination, and how your head and eye movements interact. These precise evaluations allow us to accurately diagnose conditions like BPPV or vestibular neuritis, guiding the most effective treatment approach.
3. Neurological Treatment
Based on the analysis, we proceed with targeted treatment during the same visit. Techniques such as repositioning maneuvers are used to correct dislodged crystals in the inner ear, while vestibular rehabilitation exercises help improve balance and reduce symptoms. Our goal is to provide immediate relief and establish a foundation for ongoing recovery.
4. Ongoing Support
Recovery from vertigo often requires ongoing support and follow-up. We will monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and provide you with exercises to continue at home. Our commitment is to guide you through every step of the process, helping you regain control over your daily life.
During your first visit, our primary objectives are to:
- Fully understand your symptoms: We will take the time to thoroughly discuss your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.
- Provide a detailed diagnosis: Using specialized assessments, we’ll pinpoint the exact cause of your vertigo or vestibular issue.
- Create a unique treatment plan: Based on our findings, we’ll develop a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals.
- Deliver immediate symptom relief: Whenever possible, we’ll begin treatment right away to help alleviate your symptoms and start you on the path to recovery.
What Is Vestibular Physiotherapy
There are several canalith repositioning maneuvers commonly used to treat vertigo, particularly BPPV. The most common are:
- Epley maneuver: A sequence of head movements designed to move dislodged crystals back to their original position.
- Half-Lotus maneuver: A technique that involves specific head and body positions to alleviate dizziness.
- Brandt-Daroff maneuver: Exercises that help habituate the brain to the misplaced crystals, reducing vertigo symptoms.
Your vestibular physiotherapist will use these techniques, among others, to safely reposition the dislodged otolith crystals back to their original place.
We strongly advise against attempting these maneuvers at home, as incorrect execution can worsen symptoms. Professional guidance ensures these treatments are both safe and effective, helping you achieve faster relief and long-term recovery.
Book an appointment at Brentwood Physio, Calgary today to start your path to a vertigo-free life!
What Conditions Does Vestibular Physiotherapy Treat?
Vestibular physiotherapy effectively addresses a range of conditions related to the inner ear and balance system, including:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Vestibular neuritis
- Labyrinthitis
- Ménière’s disease
- Post-concussion syndrome
- Balance issues from neurological disorders or surgeries
What Symptoms Does Vestibular Physiotherapy Treat?
Vestibular physiotherapy is designed to alleviate symptoms such as:
- Dizziness and vertigo
- Nausea
- Imbalance
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty focusing
- Motion sensitivity
Meet Our Vertigo Treatment Specialists in Calgary
Karmen Li
Karmen is a highly skilled physiotherapist at Brentwood Physio with a Master’s degree from the University of Alberta and advanced training in Vestibular and Concussion Therapy from Duke University. She specializes in treating vertigo and vestibular disorders, using techniques like vestibular rehabilitation and dry needling. Karmen’s expertise is backed by her Certificate in Vestibular Rehabilitation from Emory University (2019), making her a trusted choice for patients seeking relief from dizziness and balance issues.
Brenda Lee Fader
With over 40 years of experience, Brenda Fader is a highly skilled physiotherapist specializing in orthopaedics and vertigo rehabilitation. A graduate with distinction from the University of Alberta (BScPT), Brenda has a comprehensive understanding of complex conditions and uses her advanced training to treat the root causes of pain and dizziness. She is a member of the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta and the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, and is dedicated to helping patients find relief through personalized care and detailed assessments.
Parmeet Kaur
Parmeet is a skilled physiotherapist at Brentwood Physio with extensive training in vertigo management, pelvic floor therapy, and dry needling. A member of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, she has over a decade of experience since earning her Physiotherapy designation in 2010. Parmeet’s unique combination of skills and commitment to client-centered care make her highly effective in treating dizziness, muscle and joint issues, and a wide range of pelvic floor conditions.
Lalitha Bhowani-Mcsorley
Lalitha is a distinguished physiotherapist at Brentwood Physio, with over 30 years of experience since graduating with distinction from the University of Durban-Westville, South Africa. Certified in acupuncture and dry needling by the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada, she is also skilled in vestibular rehabilitation, effectively treating balance, dizziness, and vertigo disorders. Lalitha’s comprehensive approach combines advanced techniques with compassionate care, making her a trusted expert for those seeking relief and recovery.
Why Choose Brentwood Physio?
At Brentwood Physio in Calgary, we combine expert care with a personalized approach to help you achieve optimal health. Our team of highly qualified physiotherapists specializes in a wide range of treatments, including vertigo and vestibular rehabilitation, orthopedics, and more. We use evidence-based techniques tailored to your specific needs, ensuring effective and lasting results.
With flexible hours, direct billing to insurance, and a commitment to patient-centered care, Brentwood Physio is your trusted partner on the path to recovery and well-being. Choose us for our expertise, compassionate service, and dedication to your health right here in Calgary.
Visit us at 789 Northmount Dr NW, Calgary, AB, Canada, and start your journey today!
Other Treatments for Vertigo
The best treatment for vertigo often depends on its underlying cause. Addressing the root issue can usually alleviate the symptoms of vertigo.
In addition to vestibular physiotherapy, other effective treatments may include:
- Medications: Options like antihistamines, diuretics, benzodiazepines, corticosteroids, or anti-emetics can help manage symptoms.
- Combined therapy: A mix of medications and Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) may be recommended.
- Lifestyle modifications: Reducing or eliminating alcohol, caffeine, and salt from your diet can help prevent symptoms.
- Surgical intervention: In rare cases, surgery may be required to address the issue.
- Additional remedies: Staying hydrated, taking vitamin D supplements, and drinking ginger tea can also provide relief.
Prevalence and Treatment
According to research, nearly 40% of adults in the U.S. will experience vertigo at some point in their lives, with women being slightly more prone to it than men. Furthermore, vertigo and dizziness are among the leading reasons people seek medical care, accounting for about 2-3% of all consultations in emergency departments.
Fortunately, these conditions are curable. A study has shown that treatment maneuvers for BPPV, such as the Epley maneuver, are highly effective, resolving symptoms in over 90% of cases within just 1-3 sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dizziness is a general term for sensations such as feeling faint, lightheaded, or unsteady. Vertigo, on the other hand, is a specific type of dizziness where you feel as if you or your surroundings are spinning, often caused by inner ear or brain issues.
If you feel lightheaded or unsteady without the sensation of movement, it’s likely dizziness. If you experience a spinning or whirling sensation, where the room seems to move around you, it’s more likely to be vertigo.
Physiotherapy, especially Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT), can help by retraining the brain and body to maintain balance and reduce dizziness. It involves exercises designed to improve coordination, reduce symptoms, and enhance stability.
Physiotherapy, particularly VRT, is highly effective for many types of vertigo, including BPPV. Studies show that it can resolve symptoms in over 90% of cases after just a few sessions, significantly improving quality of life.
Initially, VRT exercises might temporarily intensify symptoms as your body adjusts, but this is usually a normal part of the recovery process. Long-term, VRT is generally safe and effective in reducing vertigo symptoms.
Yes, gentle physical exercise can help improve balance and coordination. Activities like walking, tai chi, and yoga are beneficial, but high-impact exercises should be avoided until vertigo symptoms are under control.
Avoid sudden head movements, bending over quickly, and high-risk activities like driving or operating machinery. It’s also best to limit alcohol and caffeine intake, as they can worsen symptoms.
A typical vertigo episode can last from a few seconds to several minutes. However, in some conditions like Ménière’s disease, episodes can persist for hours or even longer.
Yes, stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen vertigo symptoms. They can affect the balance system and increase the likelihood of dizziness or vertigo, especially in individuals with an existing vestibular disorder.
While vertigo is often benign, it can sometimes indicate more serious conditions like vestibular migraines, multiple sclerosis, or a stroke. It’s important to seek medical evaluation if you experience prolonged or severe vertigo.
During a vertigo attack, sit or lie down immediately to avoid falling. Keep your head still and avoid sudden movements. Rest in a comfortable position until the spinning sensation subsides.
Yes, certain dietary habits can influence vertigo symptoms. Reducing salt, caffeine, and alcohol can help manage conditions like Ménière’s disease. Staying hydrated and maintaining balanced nutrition are also important.
Driving with vertigo is not recommended, as it can impair your ability to safely operate a vehicle. It’s best to wait until your symptoms are under control and consult with your doctor before driving.
Common triggers for vertigo relapses include sudden head movements, stress, fatigue, dehydration, and certain foods or medications. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers can help manage symptoms.
In some cases, vertigo can resolve on its own, especially if it’s caused by a minor issue. However, persistent or recurring vertigo usually requires medical evaluation and treatment to manage effectively.