The Truth About Vertigo: What You Need to Know
When the world feels like it’s spinning, even the simplest daily activities can feel impossible. For millions of people, vertigo is more than just a dizzy spell — it’s a disruptive, distressing condition that can affect independence, safety, and quality of life. At Balanced Living OT, we’re here to tell you the truth about vertigo — and how occupational therapy can be a powerful partner in your recovery.
What is vertigo?
Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are moving or spinning, even when you’re still. It’s not a condition itself — but a symptom — often related to inner ear problems like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Meniere’s disease.
Vertigo may also be connected to stroke, migraine, head injury, or even prolonged hospitalization or inactivity. Symptoms can include:
Spinning or swaying sensation
Nausea or vomiting
Imbalance and falls
Lightheadedness
Anxiety or panic
Visual disturbances
And the impact? It can be life-altering. Driving, working, even walking around your own home can be daunting.
Why Occupational Therapy?
You may be wondering — isn’t vestibular therapy just for physical therapists?
Here’s the truth: Occupational therapists (OTs) are uniquely trained to help you regain function in real-life contexts. At Balanced Living OT, we specialize in vestibular rehabilitation from an OT perspective, which means we don’t just treat the symptoms — we support your independence in meaningful daily activities.
OT Vestibular Services Include:
Functional dizziness assessments (in your home environment)
Visual-vestibular retraining (VOR exercises, gaze stabilization)
Balance training and fall prevention
Safe strategies for bathing, dressing, cooking, and more
Home modifications to reduce dizziness triggers
Mind-body regulation strategies for anxiety and sensory overwhelm
We’re not just focused on exercises — we’re focused on you living confidently again.
The Emotional Toll of Vertigo
Vertigo isn’t just physical. It can take a deep emotional toll — increasing isolation, anxiety, and fear of falling. As occupational therapists, we work holistically, addressing the psychosocial side of recovery too. We believe that healing comes from understanding your body, environment, and goals — and creating a plan for them.
What to Do If You’re Struggling with Dizziness
Don’t wait for things to get worse. If you’re experiencing new or ongoing symptoms of vertigo or imbalance, occupational therapy can help you regain control — safely and effectively.
Here’s what to expect with Balanced Living OT:
In-depth evaluation (we come to you!)
Customized treatment plan
Education on your condition and exercises
Progress tracking and real-life application
Supportive, trauma-informed care every step of the way
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Balanced Living OT, we bring dignity and function back into focus — whether you’ve been struggling with vertigo for days or years.
