Vertigo & Dizziness Physiotherapy: Understanding BPPV and Vestibular Rehab
Moov Physio — Capalaba Clinic & Mobile Physio, Greater Brisbane
A spinning room, sudden unsteadiness when you roll over in bed, or dizziness that hits out of nowhere — vertigo can be alarming, but it's also one of the most treatable conditions physiotherapy sees. Here's what causes it and how we treat it at Moov Physio.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a specific sensation that you, or the world around you, is spinning or moving when you're actually still. It's different from general lightheadedness — vertigo usually points to an issue with the vestibular system in your inner ear, or occasionally with the parts of the brain that process balance.
The most common cause is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) — a mechanical problem where tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and send confusing signals to your brain about movement and position.
Common Causes of Vertigo & Dizziness
| Condition | What's Happening |
|---|---|
| BPPV | Displaced crystals in the inner ear canals trigger brief but intense spinning with head movement |
| Vestibular neuritis | Inflammation of the vestibular nerve causes sudden, more sustained vertigo |
| Cervicogenic dizziness | Neck stiffness or dysfunction alters signals to the balance system |
| Meniere's disease | An inner ear disorder causing episodes of vertigo, tinnitus and hearing changes |
| Post-concussion dizziness | Head trauma can disrupt vestibular processing and balance confidence |
How Physiotherapy Treats Vertigo
- A thorough assessment identifies which inner ear canal is affected, or whether your symptoms relate to the neck or another cause.
- Repositioning manoeuvres, such as the Epley or Semont technique, move displaced crystals back into place — often resolving BPPV in one to three sessions.
- Vestibular rehabilitation exercises retrain your brain to adapt to vestibular signals, reducing dizziness and rebuilding balance confidence.
- Balance and gaze-stability training helps with residual unsteadiness and lowers fall risk.
- Available at our Capalaba clinic or through our mobile service if travel is difficult while symptomatic.
Vertigo & BPPV: Common Questions
What's the difference between vertigo and dizziness?
Vertigo is a specific spinning sensation, usually from an inner ear issue. Dizziness is broader and can include lightheadedness or unsteadiness from various causes.
How quickly does treatment work?
Many people feel significant relief after just one to three sessions using repositioning manoeuvres, though this varies depending on the cause and whether symptoms recur.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required, though your GP may refer you if vertigo is linked to another medical condition.
Is it safe to drive afterward?
You may feel a little unsteady after repositioning manoeuvres, so we recommend arranging transport home after your first session.
Stop Living With Dizziness
Book a vestibular assessment at Moov Physio Capalaba, or ask about mobile physio if getting to us is difficult right now.
Call 04 92 96 3334 Contact Us