Vestibular Physiotherapy and Migraines

Vestibular Physiotherapy and Migraines: Managing Both for Better Balance and Comfort

Migraines are more than just severe headaches—they’re complex neurological events that often come with symptoms like light sensitivity, nausea, and even vestibular issues. Vestibular migraines are a specific type of migraine that directly impacts the vestibular system, leading to dizziness, vertigo, and balance disturbances that can interfere with daily life. At Advanced Vestibular Clinics (AVC), we understand the unique relationship between vestibular disorders and migraines, and we offer targeted physiotherapy solutions to help manage both conditions effectively.

What Are Vestibular Migraines?

Vestibular migraines affect the vestibular system, the part of the inner ear responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Unlike typical migraines, which often involve throbbing pain, vestibular migraines may not always have a headache component. Instead, they cause symptoms such as:

• Dizziness and vertigo
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Difficulty with coordination and balance
• Visual disturbances, such as seeing “aura” or spots of light

These symptoms can last from minutes to hours and vary widely from person to person.

Why Do Migraines and Vestibular Disorders Overlap?

Migraines and vestibular issues are believed to share underlying neurological mechanisms that affect the brain and nervous system. During a migraine, changes in blood flow and brain chemistry can disrupt the vestibular system, causing dizziness and imbalance. Likewise, individuals with pre-existing vestibular disorders, such as vestibular neuritis or Meniere’s disease, may be more prone to developing migraines. This overlap makes vestibular migraines a complex and multifaceted condition that requires a specialized approach to treatment.

How Vestibular Physiotherapy Can Help

Vestibular physiotherapy, also known as vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT), can be highly effective in managing both vestibular and migraine symptoms. Here’s how it works:

1. Assessment and Personalized Treatment Plans At AVC, a skilled physiotherapist will conduct an assessment to identify your specific triggers, symptoms, and needs. This information is used to develop a customized VRT plan that addresses both vestibular and migraine-related symptoms.
2. Gaze Stabilization Exercises Vestibular migraines can cause difficulty in focusing on objects, especially with head movement. Gaze stabilization exercises are designed to improve visual focus and decrease dizziness.
3. Balance and Coordination Training Balance exercises, such as standing on foam or single-leg standing, help improve overall stability and reduce the risk of falls. This can be especially useful for those with migraines that affect balance.
4. Habituation Exercises These exercises gradually expose you to movements or environments that typically trigger symptoms. Over time, habituation exercises can help your brain adapt, reducing sensitivity to specific movements or lights.
5. Education on Lifestyle Changes and Migraine Triggers Physiotherapists can guide you on avoiding common migraine triggers, such as certain foods, dehydration, and excessive screen time. Making lifestyle changes, like establishing a consistent sleep schedule and managing stress, can also significantly reduce migraine frequency and severity.

Benefits of Vestibular Physiotherapy for Migraines

Regular vestibular physiotherapy offers several advantages for individuals with vestibular migraines:

• Reduced Dizziness and Vertigo: Targeted exercises can help minimize the frequency and intensity of dizziness and vertigo.
• Improved Balance and Coordination: Balance training can increase stability and confidence in daily activities.
• Decreased Sensitivity to Triggers: Through habituation exercises, patients can better tolerate movements or visual stimuli that typically worsen symptoms.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: By effectively managing symptoms, individuals often experience an improvement in daily functioning and overall well-being.

Taking Control of Your Vestibular and Migraine Health

Vestibular migraines don’t have to control your life. With a structured vestibular physiotherapy plan, you can regain confidence and reduce symptoms. Advanced Vestibular Clinics is here to support you on this journey. Reach out today to learn more about how we can help you manage both vestibular disorders and migraines effectively.