Why is the Room Spinning? Understanding and Treating Vertigo with OT
Have you ever felt like the room is spinning around you, even when you’re standing still? This unsettling sensation, known as vertigo, can significantly impact your ability to move confidently and complete daily activities. One of the most common causes of vertigo is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)—a mechanical issue in the inner ear that is highly treatable with specialized occupational therapy techniques.
What Is BPPV?
BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals, called otoconia, become dislodged from their normal position within the inner ear and migrate into the semicircular canals. When this happens, they interfere with your balance signals, causing sudden, intense dizziness, particularly with changes in head position—such as rolling over in bed, looking up, or bending forward.
Unlike other forms of dizziness, BPPV is purely a mechanical issue. This means that with the right treatment, the misplaced crystals can be repositioned, effectively resolving the vertigo without the need for long-term medications or invasive procedures.
How Occupational Therapy Helps Treat BPPV
Occupational therapy offers specialized, evidence-based techniques to treat BPPV safely and effectively. A trained OT can assess your symptoms, confirm the presence of BPPV, and guide you through therapeutic repositioning maneuvers designed to restore your balance.
Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers
The most effective treatment for BPPV is a series of guided movements known as canalith repositioning maneuvers, such as the Epley Maneuver or Semont Maneuver. These techniques help move the displaced crystals back to their correct position in the inner ear, alleviating vertigo symptoms.
Gradual Desensitization Exercises
For individuals who experience lingering dizziness after repositioning, occupational therapy incorporates vestibular habituation exercises to help your brain adapt to motion and reduce sensitivity to positional changes.
Safety & Fall Prevention During Treatment
Because vertigo can put you at risk for falls, your safety is our top priority throughout treatment sessions. Our OT sessions include:
Careful positioning and slow transitions to minimize dizziness.
Use of a sturdy treatment table or chair for support during maneuvers.
Close monitoring for any adverse reactions during and after treatment.
Education on home precautions to reduce fall risk and manage symptoms.
What to Expect After Treatment
Most individuals experience immediate or gradual improvement in symptoms following canalith repositioning maneuvers. Some may experience mild dizziness for a short period afterward, which is completely normal as your body adjusts. You will receive customized home exercises and strategies to help maintain long-term balance and prevent recurrence.
Take Control of Your Balance & Confidence
BPPV can be frightening, but the good news is that it’s highly treatable with the right approach. If you’re struggling with vertigo, occupational therapy provides a safe, specialized, and effective solution to help you regain control, prevent falls, and move with confidence.
⚖️ If you’re ready to stop the spinning and regain stability, contact us today to schedule your assessment and treatment session!
