Vertigo

Vertigo is the sensation that you or the world around you is spinning or moving when it is not. It is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, and it can arise from a problem in the balance (vestibular) system of the inner ear, the nerves, or the brain. Vestibular physiotherapy assessment at Goji Physio in Lentor, Singapore helps identify what is driving your vertigo and, where appropriate, uses targeted techniques and exercises to reduce symptoms and restore steady, confident movement.

What causes vertigo?

Vertigo commonly arises from the inner ear’s balance system. Frequent causes include:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): brief spinning triggered by head movements, caused by displaced inner-ear crystals
• Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis: vertigo following inflammation of the balance nerve, often after a viral illness
• Vestibular hypofunction: reduced function of the inner ear’s balance system, which may cause unsteadiness, blurred vision during head movements, and difficulty maintaining balance
• Ménière’s-type conditions: episodes of vertigo with hearing changes or fullness in the ear

Not all dizziness is vertigo, and not all vertigo comes from the inner ear. Careful assessment is important to point treatment in the right direction.

When should vertigo be assessed?

It is worth having vertigo assessed when it is recurrent, persistent, or interfering with daily life. You should seek urgent medical attention if vertigo comes with any of the following: sudden severe headache, weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking, double vision, difficulty walking, or new hearing loss - as these need prompt medical evaluation to rule out other causes.

What does a session at Goji involve?

Your physiotherapist will take a detailed history of your symptoms - what triggers them, how long they last, and how they affect you - followed by a vestibular assessment that may include:

• Positional testing: specific head and body movements to reproduce and identify certain types of vertigo, such as BPPV
• Eye-movement and gaze assessment: how your eyes and inner ear coordinate to keep vision stable
• Balance and gait testing: how steady you are standing and walking
• Screening: checking for features that would prompt onward medical referral

You will leave with an explanation of what is likely causing your vertigo and, where appropriate, treatment or an individualised exercise programme.

How is vertigo treated?

Treatment depends on the cause. For BPPV, specific repositioning manoeuvres are often effective. For other vestibular conditions, a graded programme of vestibular rehabilitation exercises - gaze stability, habituation, and balance training - helps the brain adapt and reduces symptoms over time. Where the cause lies outside the scope of physiotherapy, your physiotherapist will guide you toward the right medical care.

Frequently asked questions

Is vertigo the same as feeling dizzy?

Not exactly. Vertigo is a specific spinning or moving sensation, while “dizziness” is a broader term that also includes lightheadedness or unsteadiness. Distinguishing between them helps direct assessment and treatment.

Can physiotherapy really help vertigo?

For many inner-ear causes, yes. Repositioning manoeuvres for BPPV and vestibular rehabilitation exercises for other conditions are recommended in clinical practice guidelines for vestibular conditions. Your physiotherapist will assess whether your vertigo is likely to respond.

How long does vertigo last?

This depends entirely on the cause - some types cause brief seconds-long spins, while others last minutes or longer. Your assessment will help clarify the pattern and what it suggests.

Should I rest and avoid moving my head?

Avoiding all movement is usually unhelpful for many vestibular conditions, as the brain needs movement to adapt. Your physiotherapist will guide safe, graded activity rather than prolonged rest.

Do I need a scan or specialist first?

Often not, but it depends on your symptoms. Your physiotherapist screens for features that need medical or specialist review and will refer you on if anything suggests a cause beyond the inner ear.

How should I prepare for my vestibular physiotherapy session?

We recommend having a light meal at least 1 hour before your session. If you have prescribed medication to manage dizziness or nausea, take it as directed by your healthcare provider, especially if you are experiencing symptoms. Some assessment and treatment techniques may temporarily trigger dizziness or nausea, so these precautions can help you feel more comfortable and reduce the risk of vomiting during your session.