Vertigo and dizziness: causes and solutions

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Vertigo and dizziness are common symptoms, but they are often poorly understood. They can affect balance, vision, and quality of life on a daily basis. To better understand their origin and possible treatment options, it is essential to look at the vestibular system, a key component of the inner ear.

The vestibular system: a central role in balance

The vestibular system is located in the inner ear. It works closely with the brain, eyes, and body to maintain balance, stabilize vision, and enable proper head orientation in space.

It is composed of several structures:

The cochlea, involved in hearing
The vestibule, which detects linear movements
The semicircular canals (anterior, posterior, and horizontal), responsible for detecting head movements

When this system is functioning properly, it allows for smooth movement and stable vision. However, when it is affected by infection, trauma, degeneration, or other damage, several symptoms may appear.

Vertigo or dizziness: an essential distinction

It is important to differentiate between vertigo and dizziness, as they are two distinct clinical conditions.

Vertigo manifests itself as a sensation of the environment spinning around you. It is often accompanied by involuntary eye movements.
Dizziness, on the other hand, is more like an internal feeling of instability, imbalance, or the sensation of being on a boat.

These nuances are crucial, as treatment depends directly on the type of symptom and its cause.

Possible symptoms of a vestibular disorder

When the vestibular system is disrupted, several symptoms may occur:

Impaired balance
Feeling of vertigo
Persistent dizziness
Visual difficulties
Associated pain

Each person may experience a different combination of symptoms, which is why a standardized approach is not suitable for everyone.

Vestibular rehabilitation in physical therapy

In physical therapy, vestibular rehabilitation is based on a precise assessment of the patient’s symptoms and condition. Unlike the generic solutions often found online, exercises must be personalized.

Interventions may include:

Specific maneuvers (particularly for positional vertigo)
Balance exercises
Eye movement exercises
Gradual changes in position to help the vestibular system adjust

The goal is to enable the brain to better interpret signals from the inner ear and improve overall stability.

Cervical vertigo and osteopathy

Some types of vertigo and dizziness are known as cervicogenic, meaning that they originate in the cervical spine. Muscle tension, restricted mobility, or postural imbalances can influence the information sent to the brain.

In osteopathy, treatment focuses in particular on:

Restore cervical mobility
Release muscle and fascial tension
Work on joints and surrounding structures
Assess postural sensors such as the eyes, feet, and jaw

This comprehensive approach indirectly addresses vertigo by improving the body’s overall balance.

The benefits of acupuncture for dizziness

Acupuncture can also play a complementary role in the treatment of vertigo and dizziness. According to this approach, several factors may be involved:

Tension in the neck
Digestive imbalances and abdominal pressure, particularly in relation to the vagus nerve
Energy and circulatory imbalances, often described as an accumulation of “dampness”

The aim is to improve circulation and restore the body’s overall balance.

Positional vertigo and specific maneuvers

Certain types of vertigo, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), respond very well to specific maneuvers, such as repositioning maneuvers. These techniques must be performed by trained professionals to ensure their effectiveness and safety.

The importance of an interdisciplinary approach

Vertigo and dizziness can have multiple causes. That is why an interdisciplinary approach, involving your physical therapists, osteopaths, chiropractors, and acupuncturists at ABC Health Clinic Vaudreuil-Dorion, allows for more comprehensive and tailored care.

Before beginning treatment, it is essential to obtain a professional assessment to identify the exact cause of the symptoms and determine the best course of treatment.