Vestibular Therapy for Dizziness and Vertigo

Frequent dizziness or vertigo should never be ignored. These symptoms can interfere with walking, balance, work, and daily activities—and in some cases increase the risk of falls. While dizziness may sometimes result from simple factors such as medication changes or vision correction issues, it can also be associated with more complex conditions involving the inner ear, nervous system, or musculoskeletal system.

At Webb Physical Therapy Specialists, we provide specialized dizziness treatment and vertigo therapy in New Braunfels, TX. Our goal is to identify the source of your symptoms and provide targeted treatment to restore balance, reduce disorientation, and help you move with confidence again.

Understanding Dizziness vs. Vertigo

Although often used interchangeably, dizziness and vertigo describe different sensations. Dizziness is commonly described as lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or a feeling of imbalance. Vertigo is a more specific sensation of spinning, rocking, or movement—even when you are completely still.

Vertigo symptoms are often triggered or worsened by changes in head or body position and may last from minutes to hours, or in some cases several days.

What Causes Dizziness & Vertigo?

Dizziness and vertigo may occur independently or together and are most often related to how the brain processes information from three key systems:

1. The inner ear (vestibular system)

2. Vision and eye movement tracking

3. Muscles and joints, particularly in the neck

Symptoms develop when there is a “disconnect” between these systems, causing the brain to receive conflicting information about movement and position. Common contributing factors include:

Inner Ear (Vestibular) Disturbances

If tiny calcium crystals within the inner ear become dislodged, they can interfere with balance signals and trigger vertigo, especially with head movement.

Visual–Movement Mismatch

Changes in vision or difficulty coordinating eye and head movements can contribute to dizziness and spatial disorientation.

Neck & Musculoskeletal Involvement

Reduced movement or altered sensory input from the neck can disrupt balance and contribute to dizziness.

Head or Neck Injury

Head injuries, including concussions or whiplash, are among the most common causes of inner ear and balance disturbances that lead to dizziness or vertigo. In many cases, the exact cause may not be immediately obvious, which is why a thorough evaluation is essential.

Comprehensive Dizziness & Vertigo Evaluation

Your first visit includes a detailed assessment to determine the source of your symptoms and guide appropriate care. This evaluation may include:

- Balance and gait testing

- Positional testing to assess inner ear involvement

- Eye movement and visual tracking assessment

- Cervical spine mobility and posture evaluation

- Review of symptom patterns, triggers, and medical history

This comprehensive approach allows us to determine whether your symptoms are vestibular, musculoskeletal, visual, or a combination of factors.

Physical Therapy Treatment for Dizziness & Vertigo

Based on your evaluation findings, treatment is customized to address the underlying cause of your symptoms and may include:

- Balance rehabilitation: Exercises designed to retrain the brain’s balance system

- Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: Gentle movements used when inner ear crystal displacement is present

- Balance & Gait Training: Improving stability and confidence during movement

- Neck & Postural Therapy: Addressing cervical contributions to dizziness

- Education & Home Strategies: Techniques to reduce symptom triggers and improve daily function

Many patients experience significant improvement when therapy is matched to the correct diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dizziness & Vertigo

Should I seek care for dizziness or vertigo? Yes. Ongoing dizziness or vertigo should be evaluated, especially if it affects balance, safety, or quality of life.

Can physical therapy help vertigo? Yes. Many forms of vertigo respond very well to vestibular physical therapy and targeted repositioning techniques.

How long does dizziness or vertigo last? Some cases resolve quickly, while others may persist without treatment. Proper diagnosis and therapy often speed recovery.

Is dizziness always related to the inner ear? No. While inner ear issues are common, dizziness may also involve vision, neck function, or neurological factors.