Vertigo and dizziness can be disorienting and frightening. At StayFit Physio, we offer specialized vestibular rehabilitation in Ottawa to diagnose and treat the causes of your vertigo, restore your balance, and help you move confidently again.
Common Causes of Vertigo We Treat
- BPPV — benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, the most common cause
- Inner ear disorders — labyrinthitis and vestibular dysfunction
- Vestibular neuritis — inflammation of the vestibular nerve
- Post-concussion dizziness — balance problems following head injury
- Motion sensitivity — dizziness triggered by specific head movements
- Neurological balance disorders — central nervous system conditions affecting balance
Symptoms of Vestibular Dysfunction
- Spinning sensations (vertigo)
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Loss of balance and unsteadiness
- Nausea triggered by movement
- Difficulty focusing vision during head movements
- Feeling unstable while walking
Evidence-Based Vestibular Rehabilitation
- Vestibular repositioning maneuvers — specific techniques to treat BPPV (e.g., Epley maneuver)
- Balance retraining — progressive exercises to improve stability and confidence
- Eye movement coordination — gaze stabilization exercises to reduce visual dizziness
- Gait and stability training — improving walking confidence and safety
- Neck mobility therapy — treating cervical spine dysfunction contributing to dizziness
- Gradual movement exposure — desensitizing your vestibular system to triggering movements
We integrate concussion physiotherapy and massage therapy when needed.
Improve Balance and Prevent Recurring Vertigo
We provide home exercises and movement strategies to maintain your vestibular function and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Serving Ottawa from Two Convenient Locations
Merivale Clinic — Central & West Ottawa
Our Merivale physiotherapy clinic serves patients from across Central and West Ottawa.
Barrhaven Clinic — South Ottawa
Our Barrhaven physiotherapy clinic serves patients from South and Southwest Ottawa.
Stop the Spinning — Get Help Today
Vertigo is treatable. Our vestibular rehabilitation specialists can help restore your balance and confidence.
Merivale Clinic
1547 Merivale Road, Suite 230, Ottawa, ON
Phone: (613) 366-5517
Barrhaven Clinic
126 Riocan Avenue, Unit 2, Ottawa, ON
Phone: (613) 366-5517
Hours: Mon–Fri 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Sat by appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vestibular rehabilitation?
Vestibular rehabilitation is a specialized form of physiotherapy that treats dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems caused by inner ear or neurological conditions. It includes repositioning maneuvers, balance exercises, and gaze stabilization training.
What is BPPV and can physiotherapy cure it?
BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) is caused by tiny crystals becoming dislodged in the inner ear. Physiotherapy repositioning maneuvers like the Epley maneuver can resolve BPPV in as few as 1–3 sessions.
What is the difference between vertigo and general dizziness?
Vertigo is a specific sensation of spinning or the room moving around you. General dizziness can include lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling faint. The distinction helps us determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Can vertigo be caused by a concussion?
Yes. Concussions frequently cause vestibular dysfunction leading to vertigo and balance problems. Our concussion rehabilitation program includes vestibular therapy for these symptoms.
How long does vestibular rehabilitation take?
BPPV can often be resolved in 1–3 sessions. Other vestibular conditions typically require 4–12 weeks of treatment depending on the cause and severity. Your physiotherapist will provide a timeline after assessment.
Is vestibular physiotherapy covered by insurance?
Yes. Vestibular rehabilitation is covered by most extended health insurance plans under physiotherapy. We offer direct billing to many providers.