Vertigo, an inner ear problem causing dizziness, is a condition many elderly people face. According to studies, those suffering from vertigo may find relief in simple, inexpensive exercise techniques.
The dizziness caused by this common condition can lead to substantial disability with falls, fear of falling, and loss of independence.
Exercise therapy, or vestibular rehabilitation, has proven to have positive results on elderly people suffering from symptoms related to vertigo. This simple treatment involves eye, head and body movements, stimulating the balance system. Since it does not require any equipment, researchers are certain that just about anyone can perform the exercises.
Aside from the usual treatment involving medication, doctors also found that motivation is an important factor for treating dizziness. Without motivation and confidence, patients quickly give up on curing their symptoms and immediately resort to using a cane or walker for stability.
In a study, researchers assigned 170 patients with vertigo to discover the influence of exercise therapy. They:
Divided the patients into two groups: Those receiving exercise therapy (83) and those receiving the usual medical care (87)
Patients in the exercise therapy group received one 30-40 minute appointment with a primary care nurse who taught the exercises
All patients had a 3-month and 6-month check-up to note progress
Sixty-seven percent of the patients experienced a significant improvement, while only 38 percent who received conventional medical care showed progress
Researchers concluded that exercise therapy improved symptoms, postural stability and dizziness-related handicaps in those suffering from chronic dizziness or vertigo.
Annals of Internal Medicine October 19, 2004;141:598-605
After doing some research on the net, I found that vestibular rehabilitation exercises are indeed helpful in treating vertigo.
However, it is important to note that dizziness is not just a condition found in elderly people. Over 90 million Americans have experienced a dizziness or balance problem. In fact, out of every 100,000 people, 64 are affected by this condition.
I have written about the benefits of exercise on vertigo in a past newsletter, and in addition to the countless other health benefits, exercise aids in treating dizziness and vertigo-related symptoms.
It is always encouraging to hear about a practical and effective treatment that doesn't involve medication or a visit to the doctor.
Exercising, as well as eating right, should come naturally in your daily life. You can learn more about incorporating the right exercise program into your life by reading Paul Chek's newest book, How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy!, a perfect complement to my nutritional plan.
Chek's book challenges you to take control of your health and gives you the steps to designing your own individual nutrition and exercise program. You will find the many descriptive "how to" illustrations both easy to follow and implement into your daily exercise routine.
Right now, you can get both my bestselling Total Health book and Paul Chek's book together and receive 25 percent off their regular price!
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