Vertigo vs. Dizziness: How Physical Therapists Diagnose and Treat Both

Are you experiencing dizziness or vertigo that’s disrupting your daily life? Do you feel as though the world is spinning or struggle to maintain your balance? If so, you’re not alone. According to research, approximately 1 in 7 US adults have experienced a dizziness or balance problem. 

At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Woodlands North, we specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions. In this blog, we’ll explain the difference between vertigo and dizziness, how we diagnose them, and the effective treatments we offer, including balance and vestibular therapy, for residents in Conroe, TX.

Vertigo vs. Dizziness: What's the Difference?

While often used interchangeably, vertigo and dizziness are distinct conditions with different symptoms and causes.

Vertigo 

Vertigo is a type of dizziness marked by a spinning sensation, either of yourself or your surroundings, even when stationary. It’s often caused by issues with the inner ear or vestibular system, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Meniere’s disease.

Migraines and head injuries can also trigger vertigo. Symptoms typically include nausea, vomiting, and difficulty with balance and walking.

Dizziness

Dizziness is a broader term that describes symptoms like lightheadedness, faintness, or unsteadiness. It can result from factors such as dehydration, low blood pressure, anemia, or heart issues.

Dizziness may also be caused by medication or other underlying medical conditions. Unlike vertigo, dizziness doesn’t involve a spinning sensation but can still significantly affect balance and daily activities

How Physical Therapists Diagnose Vertigo and Dizziness

Physical therapists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders, including vertigo and dizziness. To diagnose vertigo and dizziness, our physical therapists at FYZICAL Woodlands North will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including:

1. Detailed Medical History: We begin by asking about your symptoms, their triggers, and when they started. If vertigo is linked to head movements, for example, it could indicate BPPV.
2. Vestibular and Balance Testing: Specialized tests evaluate your vestibular system, eye movements, and balance. The Dix-Hallpike maneuver is commonly used to identify BPPV, while additional assessments gauge your stability and gait.

• Physical and Neurological Exam: Our therapists assess your overall strength, coordination, and neurological health to rule out conditions like migraines or other systemic issues contributing to your dizziness.

• Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, our physical therapists may recommend diagnostic tests, such as electronystagmography (ENG) or videonystagmography (VNG), to further assess eye movements and identify abnormalities in the vestibular system that could be contributing to vertigo or dizziness

How Physical Therapists Treat Vertigo and Dizziness

Physical therapy is a proven, drug-free way to manage and resolve vertigo and dizziness. Once a diagnosis is made, our physical therapists will develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals. 

Treatment for vertigo and dizziness may include:

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

Vestibular therapy focuses on resolving inner ear problems that cause vertigo and dizziness. Techniques include:

• Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: A non-invasive treatment for BPPV that uses specific head and body movements to move displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear back into their proper position, relieving the spinning sensation.
• Habituation Exercises: These exercises help your brain and body adapt to movements that trigger dizziness and vertigo, reducing symptoms over time.

Balance Therapy

If your stability is affected, balance therapy can restore your confidence and help prevent falls. We use targeted exercises to improve coordination, strengthen muscles, and enhance overall balance.

Gaze Stabilization Training

For dizziness linked to eye movement or visual tracking issues, gaze stabilization exercises improve visual focus and reduce disorientation during motion.

Strength and Mobility Training

Prolonged vertigo or dizziness can lead to weakened muscles or fear of movement. Our therapists guide you through progressive exercises to rebuild strength and restore mobility safely.

Why Choose FYZICAL Woodlands North for Vertigo and Dizziness Treatment?

At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Woodlands North, we are committed to delivering exceptional care. Here’s why residents in Conroe, TX, trust us for vertigo treatment and dizziness treatment:

• Comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan
• Expert care from licensed physical therapists with vestibular rehabilitation training
• Advanced vestibular therapy techniques and evidence-based treatments
• State-of-the-art equipment and facilities
• Supportive environment promoting healing and recovery
• Conveniently located for easy access to Conroe residents and surrounding areas 

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Say goodbye to vertigo and dizziness. At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Woodlands North, our expert physical therapists offer proven treatments for balance issues to residents in Conroe, TX, and beyond.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a steadier, more confident life.