Numerous patients over the age of 70 have complaints of feeling imbalanced. They suffer doing daily activities and have grown to believe this is how they have to live. Luckily, there is a name and treatment for it. Most of you have probably heard the word “Vertigo” at some point or other. Vertigo is something you don’t have to live with and is treatable through physical therapy.
There are two types of Vertigo:
-
- BPPV
- Hypo Function
That off balance you feel can be 1 or both of those. BBPV is your traditional vertigo, “Crystals shifting around” is most commonly mentioned when referencing this one. Hypo function is the deterioration of the actual vestibular system and how it effects the signaling to the brain. If you are wondering if you may have vertigo, below is a couple signs to watch out for:
- Unsteadiness while walking
- Dizziness when walking down a grocery isle or side walk
- Dizziness when rolling over in bed
- Overall feeling that you are unbalanced all the time
If you have any of these symptoms consider making an appointment to get checked out. The goal is to bring you in to physical therapy and screen you for one or both of these types of vertigo. If you test positive, we will work with you to prevent falls/ the feeling of unsteadiness and prevent it from effecting your daily life.
By Lindsey Hall
