Exercises to Prevent Vertigo

Exercises to Prevent Vertigo
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Exercises to prevent vertigo will vary according to the severity of your disorder. Vertigo can cause balance problems, muscle tension, fatigue and nausea. Most symptoms will subside by if you correctly and faithfully do proper exercises, according to the Vestibular Disorders Association. Start the exercises slowly, and try doing exercises without any vertigo medication to begin with. Check with your doctor prior to starting any exercise program.

Body Tilt

Tilts need to be included in your exercises to prevent vertigo. Sit on your bed or a sofa with your feet firmly planted on the floor. Close your eyes. Quickly tilt your body to your right side. Fall against your bed or sofa. At this point, your right side will be against the surface. Turn your neck slightly so that your head tilts upward. This will cause vertigo. Wait for the vertigo to go away. Once it has subsided, slowly return to the upright position. Relax for 30 seconds. Tilt your body to the left side. When your body is against the surface, turn your neck slightly so your head tilts upward. Wait for the vertigo to subside. Slowly return to original position. Perform this exercise five times in the morning and five times at night.

Dizziness Awareness

Become aware of what causes your dizziness. It may be a head turn, angle or certain vision field. Once you have identified the movement, develop an exercise program using it. Your exercise program will help you overcome the vertigo. Do the movement five times in a row, twice daily. Only pick one or two movements to start with. For instance, if you notice your vertigo occurs when you turn your head to the right, work on that area. Turn your head to the right. Return it to the original, straight ahead, position. Repeat this process another four times for the first session. If you notice that more than one movement causes vertigo, start your exercise program using only two movements. As your vertigo subsides, add one or two more movements.

Tai Chi

Tai Chi exercises can improve your sense of balance. This form of martial arts also reduces your likelihood of falling, according to the Vestibular Disorders Association. Tai Chi helps postural sway and joint alignment, evenly distributes your body weight, improves your gait and promotes a greater awareness. Do a basic exercise called Hold the Ball. Place your feet shoulder-width apart. Slightly bend your knees to arrive at a comfortable, centered position. Imagine a life force coming from the center of your body. Shape your hands as if forming a circle around this life force, your chi. Your right palm will be facing down, while your left palm will be facing up, as if you are holding a ball. Breathe slowly during this exercise. Slowly move your body weight to your right side and take a step while holding this ball. Slowly transfer your weight to your left side as you move to your left.

References

Article reviewed by Lisa Dittrich Last updated on: Jun 30, 2010

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