Understanding Vertigo and Its Impact
Vertigo is more than just feeling dizzy, it can feel like the world is spinning, swaying or tilting even when you’re simply standing still. Typically triggered by rolling over, looking up or moving your head, vertigo can strike suddenly and leave you feeling unwell or vulnerable for hours, days or even longer.
​
Living with vertigo can seriously disrupt everyday activities. It interrupts tasks like showering, driving or gardening, and sometimes life's more precious moments. That’s why our goal is to help you feel safe again through carefully structured physiotherapy designed to recalibrate your balance system. To find out more about how we can help with your vertigo, contact us now or use the quick and easy online booking system to arrange your first appointment.
Expert Vestibular Rehabilitation for Vertigo
SMARTPHYSIO’s vestibular-trained physiotherapists hold specialised post‑graduate qualifications and expertise in how the ear and brain work together to control balance and spatial orientation. When these systems break down due to inner‑ear issues or nervous system miscommunication, they’re equipped to help you regain control.
We follow a three-step approach to help you regain confidence and balance. From in-depth assessment to hands-on treatment and longer-term recovery support, each stage is tailored to your needs and progress:
1
Comprehensive Vertigo Assessment
No two vertigo cases are the same. We take the time to properly understand your individual experience and develop a tailored plan that suits you. Assessment may include:
-
Thorough case history: symptom onset, patterns, duration, triggers, medication and impact on daily life
-
Balance & coordination testing: assessing posture, walking, weight-shifting
-
Eye movement evaluation: examining nystagmus or tracking abnormalities
-
Neurological screening: reflexes, sensory tests and nerve function
-
Biomechanical review: focusing on the neck and shoulder joints, which often contribute to vestibular symptoms
Through these assessments, we can build a precise understanding of your vertigo and how it affects you.
2
Tailored, Hands-On Treatment
Every plan we create is individualised and designed specifically for you, and may include:
-
Soft-tissue massage & neck/shoulder mobilisation: to reduce tension and restore normal joint movement​
-
Vestibular rehabilitation exercises: designed to retrain your brain’s ability to maintain balance and coordination
-
Repositioning manoeuvres: such as the Dix–Hallpike, Epley, or Semont manoeuvres to reposition displaced crystals within the inner ear
-
Confidence-building balance drills: supported stepping, head turns and functional activities to help reduce fear of movement
We adapt every session to your current tolerance and symptom fluctuation. Each therapy session is bespoke to your progress.
3
Ongoing Recovery & Independence
Vertigo recovery often continues beyond a single session. Our program supports longer-term progress. We will aim to gradually reintroduce driving, exercise, work and social activities back in to your life, according to your confidence and tolerance. We can help with education regarding symptom-management, learning how to anticipate and manage trigger situations. We will look at a home exercise plan, empowering you with exercises and manoeuvres you can continue independently, all while monitoring your progress, adjusting strategies and offering reassurance as symptoms change and evolve. When required, we can liaise with your GP or neurologist for persistent or complex cases.
By progressively building your toolkit, we help you reclaim balance control, so you'll feel less vulnerable to vertigo’s disruptions.
Vertigo Conditions Treated
Our programme covers a broad range of vestibular disorders, including:
​​
BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) – the most common vertigo type caused by displaced inner-ear crystals. Treated effectively via Epley and Semont manoeuvres
Vestibular neuritis & labyrinthitis – inflammation of the inner ear vestibular nerve, typically managed with graded gaze and balance retraining
Vestibular migraine – where vertigo overlaps with migraine symptoms, our vestibular exercises and symptom management support can reduce frequency and severity
Cervicogenic vertigo – sourced in neck dysfunction and treated with manual therapy, posture and muscle work in the cervical spine
​
Benefits of Vertigo Treatment at SMARTPHYSIO
Stability
Reduction in frequency and intensity of vertigo episodes
Recovery
Faster recovery from BPPV after repositioning manoeuvres
Freedom
Improved daily activity levels with less fear of movement
Confidence
Better balance confidence during walking, driving, and travel
SMARTPHYSIO provide specialist vestibular physiotherapists trained in post‑graduate vestibular rehabilitation and a holistic, hands-on approach combining manual treatment and functional retraining. We can provide flexible care delivery, whether it's at home, in a care setting or at one of our London clinics in Hampstead, Highgate, Totteridge, Bishopsgate and Soho.
Our London Physiotherapy Clinics
We also provide visiting physiotherapy to your home, care home or office
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to start vertigo physiotherapy?
No referral is needed. You can contact SMARTPHYSIO directly to book an assessment with a vestibular specialist.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Some cases like BPPV improve after just one or two sessions, while others require a short course of vestibular rehabilitation.
What techniques do you use to treat vertigo?
We use a combination of hands-on therapy, vestibular rehabilitation exercises and repositioning manoeuvres like the Epley or Semont. Your treatment plan is tailored to your specific diagnosis.
Can you treat vertigo caused by neck problems or migraines?
Yes. We regularly support clients with cervicogenic vertigo and vestibular migraine. Treatment may include manual therapy, posture correction, and symptom-specific movement retraining.
Where can I have treatment?
SMARTPHYSIO offers treatment in your home, at care homes, or in clinics across London—including Hampstead, Highgate, Totteridge, Soho, and Bishopsgate.
Ready to Begin?
No matter how frequently vertigo disrupts your day, recovery is possible with expert assessment, targeted treatment and step-by-step support. Contact us now to discuss your symptoms, or arrange a comprehensive vertigo assessment using our quick and easy online booking system. Take control of your vertigo and let us help you regain your self-confidence and independence today.