Feeling like the room is spinning even when you're standing still is more than just unsettling—it can be debilitating. Vertigo affects millions of people each year and often leaves them searching for answers. The good news is that vertigo isn’t always a permanent condition. For many people, vestibular physical therapy can significantly reduce or even eliminate symptoms. At Norton PT in Washington D.C., we help patients understand the root cause of their vertigo and guide them through personalized treatment plans to restore balance and confidence.
Understanding Vertigo: What It Feels Like
Vertigo isn’t just dizziness. While dizziness can describe lightheadedness or feeling faint, vertigo is specifically the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning. This can lead to nausea, balance issues, trouble walking, and even anxiety. Some people experience vertigo in brief episodes, while others deal with more persistent symptoms that interfere with daily life. Understanding what’s causing this sensation is the first step to treating it effectively.
Common Causes of Vertigo
One of the most frequent causes of vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This condition occurs when tiny crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into areas where they disrupt normal balance signals. BPPV is often triggered by sudden head movements or changes in position, such as rolling over in bed or looking up quickly.
Other causes of vertigo include vestibular neuritis, an inflammation of the vestibular nerve often linked to a viral infection, and Meniere’s disease, a chronic inner ear condition characterized by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears. In some cases, migraines can also trigger vertigo symptoms, even in the absence of a headache. Identifying the specific cause is essential for guiding treatment—and that’s where a vestibular physical therapist plays a critical role.
How Vestibular Physical Therapy Helps
Vestibular physical therapy is a specialized approach designed to treat disorders of the inner ear and balance system. At Norton PT, our therapists begin with a comprehensive assessment that evaluates eye movements, balance, gait, and positional triggers. This helps pinpoint whether the vertigo is coming from a mechanical disruption (like BPPV) or a neurological issue.
For BPPV, we use specific repositioning maneuvers to guide the inner ear crystals back to their correct location. These maneuvers are highly effective and often provide immediate relief. For other types of vertigo, vestibular therapy may include habituation exercises (to reduce sensitivity to movement), gaze stabilization (to improve visual focus during head movement), and balance training. These techniques help retrain the brain to process balance signals correctly, reducing dizziness and improving coordination.
Why Vertigo Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Ignoring vertigo symptoms can lead to worsening balance, increased fall risk, and limitations in work, travel, or exercise. Many people modify their behavior to avoid triggering episodes, which can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle and a loss of confidence. With the right guidance, most patients can significantly improve or fully resolve their vertigo. Seeking help early gives you the best chance at a faster, fuller recovery—and prevents unnecessary suffering from a condition that is often treatable.
Expert Vestibular Care in Washington D.C.
At Norton PT, we specialize in vestibular physical therapy that’s grounded in clinical expertise and one-on-one care. Our Washington D.C. team takes the time to listen, assess, and create customized treatment plans that address your specific symptoms and goals. Whether your vertigo came on suddenly or has been slowly getting worse, we’re here to help you get steady on your feet again. Our goal is to restore your quality of life through movement—and we’ve helped hundreds of patients do just that.
Take Control of Your Balance Today
If you're experiencing vertigo or unexplained dizziness, don’t wait for it to go away on its own. Norton PT offers targeted vestibular physical therapy in Washington D.C. to help you find relief and regain control. Schedule an evaluation today and take the first step toward better balance and a clearer head. Visit our contact page to get started.