Feeling dizzy or as if the world is spinning around you can be both frightening and disruptive. Vertigo is a common condition that affects your sense of balance. It is often linked to problems in the inner ear or brain. Because vertigo can have many different causes, effective treatment usually requires a team of health professionals working together to identify and address the root of the problem.
Lately, we’ve noticed a growing number of patients coming to PMPP with vertigo. A common
theme we hear is that, apart from seeing their local GP, many people simply didn’t know where to turn for help. Most the time they didn’t know that physiotherapists play a key role in vertigo rehabilitation. In reality, recovery often takes a collaborative approach. A team of health professionals to get you back on your feet and help the world feel steady again.
At our physiotherapy clinic, we frequently meet patients who have been struggling with vertigo for weeks, or even months, without clear answers. Understanding who’s involved in your care, and how each professional contributes, can make a big difference in your confidence and progress on the road to recovery.
Your First Step: The General Practitioner (GP)
Most people start by visiting their GP when vertigo symptoms appear. Your doctor will:
● Ask about your medical history and symptoms.
● Check for possible causes like ear infections, medication effects, or low blood pressure. They will also screen for other neurological or cardiac issues.
● Refer you to a specialist, often an ENT doctor or a vestibular physiotherapist, for
further assessment.
ENT Specialists (Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctors)
ENT doctors are experts in diagnosing conditions that affect the inner ear, such as:
● Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
● Ménière’s disease.
● Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis.
They use specialized balance and hearing tests to pinpoint the problem. In many cases, once the cause is identified, patients are referred for vestibular rehabilitation physiotherapy to manage symptoms and restore balance.
Audiologists
Audiologists assess how well the inner ear is functioning. They can:
● Perform hearing and balance tests.
● Help identify whether vertigo is related to ear or hearing issues.
● Work alongside ENTs and physiotherapists to guide treatment.
Neurologists
If vertigo is linked to a neurological issue, like migraines, stroke, or nerve disorders, a neurologist may be involved. They perform detailed neurological exams and scans to rule out central causes of dizziness. They will often then refer patients back for balance retraining or therapy.
Physiotherapists: The Key to Regaining Balance
This is where we come in.
Vestibular physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat balance disorders and dizziness
through vestibular rehabilitation therapy. This is a safe, exercise-based approach proven to help your brain and body adapt.
At our clinic, your treatment may include:
● Repositioning maneuvers (such as the Epley maneuver) for BPPV.
● Balance retraining and coordination exercises.
● Gaze stabilization techniques to reduce dizziness when moving your head.
● Customized home exercise programs to build confidence and prevent future episodes.
Our goal is to help you feel steady, safe, and back in control of your daily activities.
Psychologists and Counselors
Persistent vertigo can lead to anxiety, fear of movement, and loss of confidence. Working
with a psychologist or counselor can support your mental wellbeing during recovery. This is especially important when vertigo affects your work, social life, or sleep.
Pharmacists
Pharmacists play a supportive role by ensuring that any prescribed medications for vertigo, nausea, or migraines are safe and used correctly. They can also check for drug interactions that might worsen dizziness.
Working Together for Your Recovery
Recovering from vertigo is a team effort. Each professional plays an important part in helping you find relief.
- Sarah