|  | Conditions Treatments | Disabilities

Vertigo Home Exercises

Vertigo is a serious affliction that can affect people of any age. It is generally brought on by an obstruction or infection in the inner ear or degeneration in this area. Vertigo may be a symptom of a disease such as Ménière's Disease, Labyrinthitis or Vestibular Neuritis, or it may be a condition in itself, known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).

  1. Epley/Semont Maneuver

    • The Epley, or Semont, maneuver is a common treatment for BPPV that can be performed at home as well as in a doctor's office. It is recommended that patients visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis and a supervised run-through of the exercise before performing it at home to ensure it is the right treatment method for their vertigo. To perform the exercise, start by sitting up on a bed or mat with your legs extended straight in front of you and your weight resting back on your hands. Rest in this position looking straight ahead for one minute, then slowly lie back. Look to the right for 30 seconds, then to the left for another 30 seconds before rolling onto your unaffected side (as diagnosed by your doctor) and lying there for 30 seconds. Return to the original position to complete the exercise. For best results, this exercise should be done for three cycles in a row just before going to sleep.

    Brandt-Daroff Exercise

    • The Brandt-Daroff exercise is a common home exercise for treating vertigo, although it is less popular than the Epley Maneuver because it takes longer to take effect. This maneuver does not require particular attention to the affected side, making it an ideal exercise for those to whom their affected side is unclear. To perform the exercise, sit up straight on the side of a bed with feet flat on the floor for 30 seconds. Move onto the bed to lie on your right side and turn your head to look up toward the ceiling at a 45 degree angle. Hold the position for 30 seconds or until any dizzyness subsides, return to the sitting position then move onto your left side and repeat. The full exercise should take two to three minutes and be repeated for five repetitions, three times a day, for two weeks.

    Balance Training

    • Vertigo can severely affect balance and stability, increasing the risk of falls and injury. By building up strength in the core muscles, you can increase your control over your body and reduce the chances of suffering a fall during a dizzy spell. Balance training can be as simple as taking daily walks, or as advanced as using a balance board or stability ball. A doctor should always be consulted to help you choose the best balance training method for your vertigo.

Disabilities - Related Articles