Top 5 Exercises Recommended by Audiologists for Vertigo Relief
Introduction: Understanding Vertigo and Its Impact
Vertigo is more than just dizziness; it’s a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when you’re actually stationary. It can be mild or debilitating and is commonly caused by conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Meniere’s disease. In Chennai, many individuals seek relief through specialized vertigo treatments, often starting with a proper diagnosis and then moving on to physical therapy or exercises.
Audiologists and vestibular specialists frequently recommend a series of exercises specifically designed to reduce or eliminate vertigo symptoms. These exercises retrain the brain and vestibular system to handle changes in head position and movement more effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the top 5 exercises recommended by audiologists for vertigo relief, explain how they work, who they help, and where to seek professional support in Chennai for personalized guidance.
1. The Epley Maneuver: A Game-Changer for BPPV
What is it?
The Epley Maneuver is one of the most commonly recommended exercises for people with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). BPPV occurs when small calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals, disrupting your balance.
How to Perform It:
- Sit upright on a bed.
- Turn your head 45 degrees to the affected side.
- Lie back quickly so your head is slightly hanging over the edge, still turned 45 degrees. Stay in this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Slowly turn your head to the opposite side.
- Roll onto your side in the direction your head is now facing, keeping your head turned.
- Slowly return to the sitting position.
Frequency:
Repeat 2-3 times daily or as advised by your audiologist.
Why It Works:
This exercise helps guide the dislodged crystals back into the correct part of the inner ear, reducing vertigo symptoms.
Local Tip:
If you’re unsure about performing this maneuver alone, consult a certified audiologist in Chennai at Eljay Hearing Centre. We have trained vestibular specialists who can guide you step-by-step through this exercise.
2. Brandt-Daroff Exercises: Great for Home Use
What are They?
These exercises are especially useful for those experiencing positional vertigo and work by helping your brain adapt to confusing signals from your inner ear.
How to Perform:
- Sit on the edge of a bed.
- Quickly lie down on one side with your nose pointed upward at about a 45-degree angle.
- Stay in this position for 30 seconds or until the dizziness stops.
- Return to sitting.
- Repeat on the opposite side.
Frequency:
Do five repetitions on each side, twice a day.
Who Should Avoid This:
These exercises may not be suitable for those with neck or back problems. Always check with your audiologist before starting.
Pro Tip:
Eljay Hearing Centre in Chennai offers personalized training sessions for exercises like Brandt-Daroff, especially helpful for elderly patients.
3. Semont Maneuver: Fast-Acting for Certain BPPV Cases
What is it?
Less commonly known than the Epley but just as effective, the Semont Maneuver helps clear the inner ear of debris causing vertigo.
How to Perform:
- Sit upright on a bed.
- Turn your head 45 degrees to the unaffected side.
- Lie down quickly on the affected side.
- After 30 seconds, move quickly to lie on the opposite side without changing head orientation.
- Stay for another 30 seconds, then return to sitting.
Frequency:
1-2 times daily under supervision.
When to Use It:
Ideal for patients who have tried Epley with limited success.
Note:
Audiologists at our Ambattur and Tambaram West clinics have seen great success in patients using this maneuver.
4. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): A Personalized Approach
What is VRT?
VRT is a broad set of exercises tailored to the individual and their specific diagnosis. It focuses on enhancing gaze stability, posture, balance, and vertigo symptoms.
Common Components of VRT:
- Gaze stabilization exercises (e.g., staring at a stationary target while moving your head).
- Balance training (e.g., standing on foam pads or walking heel-to-toe).
- Habituation exercises (repeating motions that trigger dizziness).
Why It Works:
VRT retrains your brain to interpret signals from the vestibular system more accurately.
Local Chennai Availability:
Our Alwarpet and Velachery branches offer VRT sessions conducted by certified vestibular audiologists with specialized equipment for balance testing and training.
5. Tai Chi: Gentle Movement for Long-Term Balance
Why Tai Chi?
While not a clinical exercise per se, Tai Chi is frequently recommended by audiologists and physiotherapists for patients with balance disorders or chronic vertigo.
Benefits:
- Improves coordination and balance.
- Enhances muscle strength and joint flexibility.
- Reduces the fear of falling.
Getting Started:
Look for Tai Chi classes in Chennai or follow online sessions tailored for vertigo relief. It’s best to start under supervision if you’re new to the practice.
Local Tip:
Several wellness centers near Adyar and Nanganallur now offer Tai Chi specifically for balance improvement. You can also ask your audiologist at Eljay Hearing Centre for local referrals.
When to See a Vertigo Specialist in Chennai
While these exercises are effective, they’re not a replacement for a professional evaluation. If you experience the following, consult an audiologist or ENT specialist:
- Persistent dizziness lasting days or weeks
- Hearing loss or tinnitus alongside vertigo
- Nausea or vomiting due to vertigo
- Difficulty walking or focusing
You can book an appointment online with Eljay Hearing Centre via our appointments page or walk into any of our 8 conveniently located clinics across Chennai.
Why Eljay Hearing Centre Is Your Go-To Vertigo and Hearing Specialist in Chennai
With over 49 years of expertise, 8 centers in prime locations like Purasawalkam, Adyar, Tambaram West, Ambattur, Velachery, Alwarpet, and Nanganallur, Eljay Hearing Centre is Chennai’s most trusted name in hearing and balance health. We are an authorized partner for leading hearing aid brands and provide complete diagnostics, audiologist consultations, and personalized treatment plans.
Whether you’re seeking vertigo relief, tinnitus management, or hearing aid fittings, our multidisciplinary team is here to help.
Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Balance Today
Vertigo can disrupt your daily life, but effective solutions are available. From the Epley Maneuver to Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, these exercises can significantly reduce your symptoms when done consistently and correctly. Pairing exercises with expert care from Eljay Hearing Centre ensures not only symptom relief but also long-term health and stability.
For advanced vertigo evaluation and customized treatment, visit eljayhearing.com or call to schedule a consultation at any of our Chennai branches.
Take the first step toward a life without dizziness today!