T
he Center for Balance often treats patients that have gone to multiple medical specialties with no answers or relief of their symptoms. Our unique treatment approach addresses your symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems, no matter the cause. As a designated neurological clinic, The Center for Balance has a high success rate in relieving our patients of these difficult symptoms. One such disorder that often goes undiagnosed and left untreated is vestibular migraine.
VESTIBULAR MIGRAINE
Common signs/symptoms of vestibular migraine
- History of migraines
- Vertigo/Dizziness lasting 5 minutes to 72 hours
- Vertigo/Dizziness brought on by head movements
- Headache with at least two of the following characteristics: one-sided location, pulsating quality, moderate or severe pain intensity, or aggravation by routine physical activity
- Visual aura
- Photophobia- Bothered by light
- Phonophobia- Bothered by sounds
- Unsteadiness
- Motion sickness
- Female- More prevalent
- Triggers- Menstruation, lack of sleep, diet, stress/anxiety, depression
- Neck pain
- Decreased quality of life
Dizziness and balance disturbances are two of the most common symptoms associated with vestibular migraine.
This is because the vestibular system (inner ear), relays information to the brain regarding movements of your head. The brain then uses this information to control head, eye, and trunk movements. Any disruption of the vestibular system information to the brain can cause dizziness, vertigo, and balance deficits. Some neurotransmitters associated with migraine are also used to regulate the vestibular system, and disturbances of these neurotransmitters can also cause deficits in the inner ear input to the brain.
Treatment
Patients suffering from vestibular migraine can find relief of their symptoms through medications, but the symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems need to be treated.
Treatment strategies include vestibular adaptation, functional balance rehabilitation, and treatment of any associated neck pain and stiffness. The Center for Balance is the only Physical Therapy clinic in Cincinnati that exclusively treats patients suffering from these types of symptoms.
PATIENT TESTIMONIAL
Dear Dr. Shumrick and staff:
After seeing many doctors, a friend told me about your place in Blue Ash that she had gone to because of dizziness from migraines and you guys helped so much. Desperate, I called, and was seen by your therapists there. Now I am without dizziness or vertigo, and I am enjoying doing things with my kids again.
A. C. Milford
MONTHLY QUOTE
FALL PREVENTION TIP OF THE MONTH
Did you know that people on four or more prescription medications are more likely to fall? Have your doctor review your medications with you annually to see if any adjustments need to be made. This could help prevent a fall.
ENJOY THE SPRING!
Dr. Patrick Shumrick BS, MHS, DPT
The Center for Balance Staff
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