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Are you experiencing sudden, intense spinning sensations? Do simple movements, such as rolling over in bed or looking up, trigger dizziness? You might be suffering from Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), a common inner ear disorder that can disrupt your life. At Spectrum Healthcare, our expert team of physiotherapists and sports chiropractors can help you find relief and regain your balance.

Understanding BPPV: Why the World Seems to Spin

BPPV is a common cause of vertigo, which is a sensation of spinning or whirling. Unlike general dizziness or lightheadedness, vertigo makes you feel like you or your environment are actively moving. This condition occurs due to a disruption in your inner ear, the centre for balance. Within your inner ear are tiny organs that detect fluid movement, enabling you to sense gravity and keep your balance. In BPPV, small calcium crystals (otoconia) become dislodged from their usual position and move into the semicircular canals of the inner ear. These crystals disrupt the normal flow of fluid, sending false signals to your brain about your body's position. This sensory mismatch causes the sudden, intense episodes of vertigo typical of BPPV.

BPPV Symptoms: Recognising the Signs

The primary symptom of BPPV is vertigo, often triggered by specific head movements. Other common symptoms include:

• Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Brought on by turning the head, tilting, or changing positions. Many people report a spinning sensation after rolling over in bed.
• Nausea: The disorienting spinning can lead to queasiness and even vomiting.
• Balance Problems: Difficulty maintaining stability while walking or standing, increasing the risk of falls.
• Nystagmus: Involuntary, rapid eye movements that occur during vertigo episodes.

Who is at Risk for BPPV?

While BPPV can affect anyone, it's more prevalent in certain groups:

• Older Adults: Age-related changes in the inner ear make those over 50 more susceptible.
• Women: Hormonal factors may play a role in calcium metabolism, potentially increasing risk.
• Individuals with Head Injuries: Concussions or other head trauma can dislodge inner ear crystals. Athletes and those involved in accidents are at higher risk.
• People with Inner Ear Conditions: Conditions such as Meniere’s disease or a history of previous ear infections can increase the likelihood of BPPV.

What Causes BPPV?

Several factors can contribute to the development of BPPV:

• Head Trauma: A blow to the head can dislodge the calcium crystals.
• Aging: Natural degeneration of the inner ear increases susceptibility.
• Inner Ear Disorders: Existing conditions may contribute to crystal displacement.
• Idiopathic BPPV: In some cases, the cause remains unknown.

Spectrum Healthcare: Your Path to BPPV Relief

At Spectrum Healthcare, we provide effective, non-invasive treatments to manage BPPV and improve your quality of life. Our experienced physiotherapists and sports chiropractors employ a range of techniques, including:

• Epley Maneuver
  A specialised series of head movements designed to reposition the dislodged crystals within the inner ear. This safe and often immediately effective procedure can provide significant relief.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation
  Targeted exercises and activities to retrain the inner ear system and improve balance.
• Balance and Strength Training
  Exercises to enhance stability, coordination, and reduce the risk of falls, particularly important for those experiencing balance issues due to vertigo.
• Manual Therapy
  Techniques to improve neck mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate associated musculoskeletal issues that can contribute to vertigo symptoms. This includes gentle mobilisations, soft tissue therapy, and dry needling.