Vertigo, also known as dizziness or swimming head, is a condition that makes you feel like you're moving when there is no movement present. It is often caused by debris or another condition that affects you inner ear, and can make performing even the most trivial daily tasks difficult, if not impossible. Exercise that helps train your body to recognize motion can help treat this condition, but you should be sure that you talk to your doctor before getting started on these exercises to determine whether they are right for you.
Eye Movement Exercises
This exercise is designed to help your body become accustomed to movement in your eyes. It can be performed while seated or standing. Look up and down 20 times, starting slowly and progressively speeding up as you continue the repetitions. Once you have completed this exercise begin looking to your right and left 20 times. Start slowly and speed up as you progress through the repetitions.
Head Movement Exercises
Sit down in a comfortable chair with your back straight and your head directly over your hips and shoulders. Keep your eyes open and use the muscles of your neck to bend your head forward and backwards 20 times, beginning slowly and picking up speed as you continue the repetitions. Continue keeping your eyes open and turn your head from side to side 20 times. As your condition improves, you can try these exercises with your eyes closed.
Exercises with Body Movement
You should exercise caution and only perform this exercise is your doctor has told you that it is appropriate for your condition, since the chances of falling are greater if you're still suffering dizziness. Walk back and forth across the room using rapid turns with your eyes open. Repeat 20 times. You can make this exercise more difficult by repeating it with your eyes closed. This exercise can be made more difficult if you walk up and down a slope, but be sure that you have enough balance before attempting walking up and down hills.
Brandt-Daroff Exercises
Brandt-Daroff exercises are based on taking your body through multiple positions in order to habituate your inner ear to different body positions. Begin by sitting on the edge of your bed. Lie down quickly on your right side with your head turned to the right at about a 45-degree angle to the left. Pause for 30 seconds or until any dizziness subsides and then sit back up and look straight ahead. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then lie down quickly on your left side with your head turned at a 45 degree angle to your right. Hold this position for 30 seconds or until any dizziness goes away, and then return to the sitting position. This is one repetition of the exercise. These exercises should be repeated as directed by your doctor.
