Vestibular Physiotherapy for Dizziness & Balance Problems

Dizziness and Balance Problems Are Often Highly Treatable — Don't Just Put Up With Them.

Vestibular Physiotherapy for Dizziness & Balance Problems in Pottsville & Cabarita

Dizziness, vertigo and balance problems are among the most unsettling symptoms a person can experience — and also among the most undertreated. Many people live with these symptoms for months or years, not realising that targeted vestibular physiotherapy can provide rapid and lasting relief.

At Pottsville & Cabarita Physiotherapy, our trained vestibular physiotherapists provide assessment and treatment for a wide range of vestibular and balance conditions, including BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) — one of the most common causes of sudden, intense dizziness.

What Is the Vestibular System?

The vestibular system is the part of your inner ear and brain that processes balance and spatial orientation. It works alongside your vision and proprioception (body position sense) to keep you stable and oriented. When any part of this system is disrupted — whether in the inner ear, the brain’s processing centres, or the cervical spine — dizziness, vertigo or balance problems can result.

Vestibular conditions are more common than most people realise. They account for a significant proportion of all dizziness presentations and affect people of all ages — though prevalence increases significantly after 60, where vestibular dysfunction is a leading contributor to falls.

Common Causes

BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) — calcium crystals displaced in the inner ear canals, causing brief intense vertigo with head movement
Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis — inflammation of the inner ear following viral illness
Cervicogenic dizziness — dizziness arising from the cervical spine, often with neck pain
Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) — chronic functional dizziness
Unilateral vestibular hypofunction — reduced function on one side following illness or injury
Age-related balance decline (presbyvestibulopathy)
Post-concussion dizziness and balance disturbance
Medication side effects

Signs & Symptoms

Sudden intense spinning (vertigo) triggered by head or body position changes — classic BPPV
A constant feeling of unsteadiness or 'rocking on a boat'
Dizziness or nausea with screen use, busy environments or certain movements
Loss of balance, stumbling or fear of falling
Visual disturbance with movement (oscillopsia)
Dizziness associated with neck pain or stiffness
Dizziness following a virus, flu or ear infection
Post-concussion dizziness or balance problems

How Physiotherapy Helps

Vestibular physiotherapy uses specific, evidence-based techniques to retrain the vestibular system, clear displaced crystals (in BPPV), and progressively challenge balance to build stability and confidence.

Many people with vestibular conditions improve rapidly with targeted physiotherapy. BPPV in particular often resolves within 1–3 sessions with the Epley or Semont manoeuvre. Other vestibular conditions require a structured rehabilitation program but still respond very well to physiotherapy.

Detailed vestibular assessment — identifying the specific type and cause of dizziness
Epley, Semont and Brandt-Daroff manoeuvres for BPPV crystal repositioning
Vestibular adaptation and habituation exercises for chronic dizziness
Gaze stabilisation exercises for visual disturbance
Progressive balance and gait rehabilitation
Cervicogenic dizziness treatment — neck physiotherapy where the cervical spine is contributing
Post-concussion vestibular rehabilitation
Fall prevention programs for older adults

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Detailed history of your dizziness — onset, triggers, duration and associated symptoms

Specific vestibular assessment tests to identify the type and location of the problem

Cervical spine screening where relevant

Clear explanation of your diagnosis and what treatment will involve

Treatment on the day where appropriate (BPPV repositioning can often be performed at the first appointment)

When to Seek Help

You experience sudden spinning vertigo with head movements
You have chronic unsteadiness that is limiting your daily activities or confidence
Dizziness has persisted following a viral illness
You are noticing balance decline or fear of falling
You have had a concussion and are experiencing dizziness or balance problems
Important: Seek emergency care if dizziness is accompanied by sudden severe headache, double vision, difficulty speaking or weakness — these require urgent medical assessment

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is BPPV and how quickly can it be treated?

BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) is caused by calcium carbonate crystals (otoliths) becoming displaced in the semicircular canals of the inner ear. It causes brief but intense spinning vertigo when the head changes position. It is the most common cause of vertigo and typically resolves very quickly — often within 1–3 physiotherapy sessions using repositioning manoeuvres.

How do I know if my dizziness is vestibular or something more serious?

Seek emergency care immediately if dizziness is accompanied by sudden severe headache, vision changes, difficulty speaking, weakness or numbness — these can indicate a stroke or serious neurological event. Vestibular dizziness is typically positional, associated with movement, and not accompanied by these warning signs. Your physiotherapist or GP can help differentiate.

Can neck problems cause dizziness?

Yes. Cervicogenic dizziness arises from dysfunction in the upper cervical spine and is often associated with neck pain and stiffness. It is treated with physiotherapy directed at the cervical spine rather than vestibular exercises.

Is vestibular physiotherapy suitable for older adults?

Yes — and it is particularly important. Falls are a leading cause of serious injury in older adults, and vestibular dysfunction is one of the most significant modifiable contributors to fall risk. Vestibular physiotherapy can meaningfully improve balance and reduce fall risk.

How many sessions will I need?

BPPV typically resolves in 1–3 sessions. Other vestibular conditions usually require a program of 4–8 sessions over several weeks, with home exercises to consolidate gains. Your physiotherapist will outline a realistic timeline at your first appointment.

Can physiotherapy help post-concussion dizziness?

Yes. Post-concussion vestibular symptoms — including dizziness, balance difficulties and visual disturbance with movement — respond well to a graduated vestibular rehabilitation program. This should be guided by a physiotherapist with specific vestibular training.

Will I feel worse before I feel better?

Some vestibular exercises temporarily provoke mild dizziness — this is expected and is part of the habituation process. Your physiotherapist will guide you carefully and adjust the program to ensure the challenge is appropriate for your level.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is required. You can book directly at the Cabarita clinic.