Vertigo

Vertigo

There are many things that can cause vertigo; Meniere’s disease, vestibular migraines, labyrinthitis, multiple sclerosis and benign paroxysmal position vertigo (BPPV), to name a few. Some can be treated through osteopathy and physiotherapy, some cannot. In our clinic we have had successful results treating BPPV.

Within the inner ear there is a bony labyrinth home to calcium crystals, otherwise known as otoconia or otoliths. These crystals dislodge in people suffering from BPPV, symptoms can go unrecognised until the person suddenly moves their head, rolls over in bed, or looks up or down. These head movements can cause a sudden onset of; vertigo, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and occasionally fainting and typically last for approximately 10-20 seconds. These symptoms can be made worse with stress, a lack of sleep or a change in barometric pressure. BPPV typically affected females more than males (2:1) with an onset between the ages of 50-70.

At CCHN we take a detailed case history and complete an orthopaedic and neurological examination to determine the cause of vertigo. When the practitioner has reached the diagnosis of BPPV, they will perform the Epley’s manoeuvre which can, and typically does reduce, or eradicate the patient’s symptoms of vertigo within a few treatments.

Dr Jake Larkin – CCHN Osteopath