At Flex Physio Hub, with our clinics in Abingdon and Didcot, we often see people experiencing vertigo who want a clearer understanding of what may be causing their symptoms.

What is vertigo?

Vertigo is a common condition. It causes a sensation of spinning or movement, even when you are still.

In many cases, the vestibular system in the inner ear causes vertigo, which helps control balance and spatial awareness.

Common symptoms include:

• Spinning sensation
• Unsteadiness
• Nausea

Head movements trigger symptoms such as rolling in bed, looking up, or turning quickly.

Common causes

One of the most frequent causes is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), where small crystals move out of position in the inner ear. For example, viral infections affecting the inner ear can also cause vertigo. In addition, neck stiffness, injury, migraines, or other medical conditions may contribute.

How physiotherapy can help

However, physiotherapy can help manage certain types of vertigo, particularly BPPV, as well as some cases related to the neck or balance system. At Flex Physio Abingdon and Flex Physio Hub Didcot, physiotherapists trained in dizziness and balance assessment aim to identify contributing factors and guide appropriate management.

For BPPV, symptoms often improve quickly. This is done using specific movement-based techniques. Most people improve within a small number of sessions.

When to seek help from Physiotherapy:

If vertigo is ongoing, worsening, or interfering with daily life, assessment by a healthcare professional is recommended. Vertigo is common and often manageable once the cause is
understood, and with appropriate assessment many people can regain confidence and return to normal activities.

Sudden vertigo with severe symptoms needs urgent attention.
This includes:

• Severe headache
• Double vision
• Slurred speech
• Facial weakness
• Numbness

Go to A&E immediately if these occur.