Understanding Dizziness: Causes, Treatment, and Hope at the Brain Spine Pain Institute of Lake Nona

By: Quinard L. Webb
Physical Therapist | Certified Brain Injury Specialist

Dizziness is a common and often debilitating symptom that can affect individuals of all ages. As a physical therapist at the Brain Spine Pain Institute of Lake Nona, I’ve worked with countless patients who have experienced dizziness — sometimes suddenly, sometimes persistently — and it can be deeply distressing; literally stopping people from doing the things they love. Understanding the underlying causes and exploring effective treatments is essential in helping patients regain control, confidence, and quality of life.

Common Causes of Dizziness

Dizziness can mean different things to different people — lightheadedness, vertigo (a spinning sensation), unsteadiness, or a general sense of imbalance. It’s important to identify the specific type in order to treat it appropriately. Some of the most common causes include:

• Vestibular Disorders: These affect the inner ear and balance system. Conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, and vestibular neuritis are common culprits.
• Cervicogenic Dizziness: Dysfunction in the neck, often due to muscle tightness, joint restrictions, or poor posture, can lead to dizziness.
• Concussions or Traumatic Brain Injuries: These can disrupt the brain’s ability to process balance and spatial orientation.
• Neurological Conditions: Stroke, multiple sclerosis, and migraines can cause chronic or episodic dizziness.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Low blood pressure, arrhythmias, or reduced blood flow to the brain may result in dizziness or faintness.
• Medication Side Effects or Dehydration: Sometimes dizziness is secondary to systemic issues or pharmacological side effects.

Treatment Options at the Brain Spine Pain Institute of Lake Nona

At our institute, we take a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to treating dizziness. Physical therapy plays a crucial role, but we work closely with neurologists, pain management specialists, and other providers to ensure holistic care. Here’s how we tackle dizziness:

1. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

   This is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to retrain the brain and body to compensate for inner ear dysfunction. We use tailored exercises to improve gaze stabilization, postural control, and overall balance.

2. Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers

   For patients with BPPV, we perform repositioning techniques such as the Epley maneuver to move dislodged crystals in the inner ear back to their proper location. This often brings immediate relief.

3. Manual Therapy and Postural Training

   When dizziness is cervicogenic in origin, we use gentle joint mobilizations, soft tissue work, and postural re-education to restore normal neck function and alleviate symptoms.

4. Neurological Reconditioning/Sensory Integration

   For patients with dizziness following concussion, stroke, or other neurologic conditions, we provide progressive retraining to help recalibrate balance, eye movement, and spatial awareness.

5. Balance and Fall Prevention Programs

   We implement proactive strategies to strengthen lower body stability, improve proprioception, and reduce fall risk, especially in older adults.

6. Collaborative Care

   We coordinate with our neurologist and other in-house specialists to address other contributing factors such as medication, migraine management, or other non-surgical options.

Conclusion: A Path Toward Stability and Confidence

At the Brain Spine Pain Institute of Lake Nona, we understand that dizziness can be more than just a nuisance — it can limit independence, affect mental well-being, and disrupt everyday life. Fortunately, with the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, recovery is not only possible but highly achievable.

As a physical therapist, it’s deeply rewarding to help patients find their footing again — quite literally. If you or someone you love is struggling with dizziness, don’t ignore it. Schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward a steadier, safer, and more confident life.

Let’s find your balance — together.

Brain Spine Pain Institute of Lake Nona
Compassionate. Comprehensive. Committed to Your Recovery.