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Vertigo and dizziness are common concerns affecting many adults in Melbourne, including Warrandyte. Studies suggest that over one in three adults experience dizziness at some point in their lives, with higher prevalence among people over 50. Symptoms like spinning, unsteadiness, or light-headedness can disrupt daily life, prompting many residents to ask: “Should I see a physiotherapist, a chiropractor near Warrandyte, or an ENT specialist first?”
This article explains the typical care pathway, helping Warrandyte locals make safe, informed choices.
Understanding Vertigo and Its Most Common Causes
Vertigo is a symptom, not a condition. It describes the false sensation of spinning, movement, or imbalance. According to Better Health Victoria, vertigo can originate from:
- Inner ear issues (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease)
- Neck-related problems (cervical vertigo, poor posture, joint stiffness)
- Other causes (long hours sitting, screen use, or posture strain)
Understanding the root cause is essential in deciding whether vestibular physiotherapy, assessment by a chiropractor near Warrandyte or ENT specialist is most appropriate.
Why Physiotherapy Is Often the First Recommendation
In Australia, physiotherapy is usually the first-line treatment for most vertigo cases, especially when linked to the inner ear. Vestibular physiotherapists are trained to assess balance and apply targeted, evidence-based treatments.
Common physiotherapy interventions include:
- Epley or canalith repositioning maneuvers for BPPV
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy using exercises to retrain balance
- Guided home programs to manage dizziness safely
Physiotherapy addresses balance and inner-ear causes first. If dizziness persists, particularly with neck stiffness, headaches, or posture issues, consulting a chiropractor chiropractor near Warrandyte may be the next step.
When Chiropractic Care May Be Appropriate
Chiropractic care is most effective for cervicogenic vertigo, which is dizziness associated with neck dysfunction rather than inner ear problems. Evidence suggests that targeted neck adjustments, posture correction, and joint mobilisation can reduce neck-related dizziness (Better Health Victoria). Many people seeking a chiropractor near Warrandyte do so after noticing their symptoms worsen with neck movement or prolonged sitting.
Typical chiropractic interventions include:
- Gentle neck and spinal adjustments
- Posture and ergonomics advice
- Muscle tension release techniques
The Role of ENT Specialists
ENT specialists are important when vertigo is persistent, severe, or unexplained. Referral is recommended if symptoms suggest inner ear disorders or red flags such as:
- Hearing loss, ringing, or pressure in the ears
- Vertigo unresponsive to physiotherapy or chiropractic care
- Recurrent severe episodes affecting daily function
ENT assessment may include hearing tests, balance evaluations, imaging, or medications. Surgery is rarely required and only for complex cases.
Step-by-Step Guide for Warrandyte Residents
Here’s a simple framework to decide who to see first:
Symptom Profile | Recommended First Step | Follow-Up Option |
Inner ear dizziness, spinning, imbalance | Vestibular physiotherapy | If unresolved: Chiropractor for cervicogenic causes |
Neck stiffness, posture issues, mild dizziness | Chiropractor (cervical vertigo focus) | Physiotherapy to support balance |
Persistent, severe, or complex dizziness | ENT specialist | Collaborative care with physio/chiropractor |
Tip: Starting with physiotherapy for sudden vertigo is generally safest. Chiropractic care is complementary, particularly when neck involvement is present.
Frequently Asked Questions
For inner ear–related vertigo, physiotherapy is the safest first step. Seeing a chiropractor near Warrandyte is appropriate if dizziness is linked to neck issues.
Yes, evidence shows targeted neck adjustments and posture interventions may reduce cervicogenic dizziness.
If dizziness is severe, persistent, accompanied by hearing changes, or does not improve with physiotherapy/chiropractic care.
Taking Action
For Warrandyte residents, early assessment is key.Combining physiotherapy for balance with support from a chiropractor near Warrandyte for neck-related factors can improve symptom management. If you experience persistent or complex vertigo, an ENT specialist should be consulted.
Book a professional assessment today at The Chiropractic Co., just 21 minutes from Warrandyte, to get a tailored plan for your dizziness and neck health.