What is Vertigo?

Jadean Hoff, PT, DPT, NCS, CCCM

Vertigo, one of the most common causes of dizziness, happens when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear, called otoconia, move out of place.

These crystals normally sit in the vestibular labyrinth, which helps your brain sense motion and maintain balance. But when they shift into the wrong canal, your brain receives mixed signals that can cause brief episodes of spinning or imbalance.

Vertigo is also often referred to as BPPV, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. 

What are the symptoms of vertigo? 

Symptoms of vertigo, can include a sense of spinning, dizziness, or imbalance that happens every time you change positions such as:

• Rolling over in bed
• Looking up
• Bending down

If the spinning lasts less than a minute, it could be vertigo. 

What are the risk factors for developing vertigo?

Vertigo is more common in:

• Older adults
• Women
• People with osteoporosis
• Those with a history of thyroid problems
• People with diabetes and high blood pressure

Vertigo can also develop:

• After a head injury
• After a concussion

What does vertigo feel like?

Younger patients often describe vertigo as a spinning sensation, while older adults may simply feel unsteady or off-balance, which is why dizziness or falls should never be dismissed as a normal part of aging.

Diagnosing vertigo

Physical therapists at Gaylord Specialty Healthcare use specialized vestibular assessment goggles to observe eye movements during head position changes. These movements help identify which ear and which canal is affected, guiding targeted treatment.

Treatment for vertigo

Treatment is quick, safe, and highly effective. Using gentle repositioning maneuvers, a physical therapist can guide the crystals back to their proper place. Most people feel better within one or two treatments, although more sessions may be needed if multiple canals are involved.

Early treatment not only relieves dizziness but also can reduce fall risk, helping patients regain confidence and mobility. 

Stop the spin

Dizziness, imbalance, and falls are not normal parts of aging and they can often be treated successfully. If you or a loved one experiences brief spinning with position changes, schedule a vestibular evaluation with a Gaylord physical therapist today. With the right care, you can restore balance, stability, and stop the world from spinning. 

This content is for educational purposes only and is meant to provide general information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health. In case of a medical emergency, contact your doctor or call 911 right away.