Is Walking Good For Vertigo?

Walking is a popular form of exercise because it is appropriate for most people and can be done anywhere. Not only can it lower your risk of disease, but it can also help you control your body weight. However, walking might not be appropriate if you are suffering from vertigo.

Vertigo

The exact definition of vertigo is illusion of motion, according to a University of Iowa webpage. It is commonly used to describe the chronic or intermittent sensation of loss of balance. Trauma or a medical condition that affects the inner ear can cause vertigo. In most cases, it can be treated by medication, physical therapy, surgery and rest. If vertigo is being caused by something such as a bad head cold, once you heal, the vertigo disappears. If it is a chronic case of vertigo, other treatments may be needed.

Walking with Vertigo

Walking is an everyday activity that most of us perform without any real thought. However, it does require you to balance and coordinate movement. When your balance is affected by vertigo, walking can be affected. In fact, walking may actually worsen your symptoms depending on the severity of your vertigo. Each case is specific so you will need to evaluate how walking affects you and your symptoms.

Exercise Recommendations

For health you want to try and exercise three to five days per week for at least 30 minutes at a moderate to high intensity, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. With vertigo you might need to perform at a light to moderate intensity in order to avoid worsening your symptoms. A stationary bicycle and some forms of light resistance training may be OK as long as feel fine. Listen to your body and the advice of your physician.

Considerations

If your vertigo is chronic, your physician might advise you to see a physical therapist. A trained therapist will help you improve your balance and stability so that you can perform your regular activities with minimal symptoms and avoid falling or injuring yourself. Learning these techniques and exercises you may be able to add walking and other forms of exercise back into your routine.