EQUIFit: Rebalance yourself
Vertigo training with biofeedback is one of the most effective methods for vertigo and dizziness complaints of all kinds to get back into balance. The position of the patient in space is measured by the devices and reflected back to the brain via a sensory channel as information. This information connects the brain with the signals from the body’s own measurement systems, and over time learns to rebalance without this information.
The devices on the market for biofeedback training differ considerably in terms of the measurement of the body position, the sense channel of the information reflected back and the practical handling of the training.
Devices that are similar to the organ of equilibrium and that measure body position in the head area and not, for example, in the upper body area are to be preferred. As a sensory channel for the reflected-back information, vision is less suitable than hearing, because the visual process itself, which is part of normal balance regulation, stabilizes it and thus makes training much less effective. Hearing, on the other hand, provides optimal spatial orientation without taking over the regulation of equilibrium and thus also allows dizziness training with closed eyes.
EQUIFit acoustic biofeedback
Based on these considerations, the vertigo trainer EQUIFit was developed, which uses a comfortable headphone to measure the deviation of the head and body and transmits it acoustically to the brain. Similar to a parking aid, acoustic signals indicate the direction and extent of the sway and allow targeted correction of posture. A structured exercise program leads you individually through the different levels of the training. Exercises while standing, walking and on different surfaces allow a gradual increase in the level of difficulty. The device detects when a level rise is safely possible and conveniently, the instructions are also given the same over the headphones, so that a tedious reading in training instructions deleted.
For the first time, EQUIFit also offers a biofeedback device for dizziness and vertigo training that can be conveniently used at home. The previous procedures were usually available only in specialized clinics and practices, which has a daily, continuous training, as required for a quick success, has made very difficult.
Author: Dr. med. Uso Walter (ENT Specialist)
READ MOREBiofeedback for vertigo and dizziness complaints
Today, we know that vertigo arises as a result of conflicting information to the brain. For example, if one of the equilibrium organs in the inner ear is less well than the other, the center of equilibrium in the brain receives differing information. Since this information contradicts itself, a subjective feeling of dizziness and vertigo often also accompanied by a fall inclination arises. You are in the truest sense of the word out of balance.
The central compensation
If the damage remains in the inner ear for a long time, the brain can get used to the conflicting information. It learns to weigh the information differently and in this way creates a new balance. The vertigo disappears gradually and occurs only in special stress situations with high demands on a healthy balance system. This learning process of the brain is called central compensation. It is based on the so-called neuroplasticity, the ability of our brain to form new neural connections and networks. In young people, this ability is more pronounced than in older people. Therefore, the vertigo symptoms improve faster the younger a patient is. Especially for people from middle age, therefore, an intensive and above all effective training is required. Thus, the vertigo symptoms can be improved as quickly as possible and the risk of falling can be reduced.
Physiotherapy and biofeedback
This learning process can be promoted with a targeted vertigo training, which gives the brain time and again information about the movement in the room. It is important to differentiate between simple exercise exercises and physiotherapy of so-called biofeedback methods, which provide the brain with additional helpful information during training and are thus much more effective. Optical, acoustic or touch stimuli show the person concerned his position in space and replace the missing information, for example, from the equilibrium organ in the inner ear via other sensory channels.
Depending on the nature of the cause of dizziness and age, a dizziness training takes different lengths. A noticeable improvement occurs, however, especially in the biofeedback process but very quickly: in scientific studies could usually be found after ten training sessions, a significant improvement in the dizziness.
Further information on exercise targeting vertigo symptoms can be found here.
Author: Dr. med. Uso Walter (ENT-specialist)
READ MOREVertigo the underestimated symptom
Everything turns, the ground sways and you lose your grip: Vertigo is one of the most common symptoms of all and very stressful for those affected. Since several functional systems regulate our balance, the underlying diseases that can lead to dizziness are very different. As a result, the cause is not always easy to find. Dysfunction of the balance organ in the inner ear, neurological diseases and psychogenic vertigo are the most common causes. But circulatory problems, tension in the neck and shoulder area or medication can cause balance problems, dizziness and vertigo as well.
Causes of vertigo
Valuable clues what causes the vertigo can be derived from the type of vertigo, the timing and accompanying symptoms. Thus, a sudden onset with rotary vertigo and ear symptoms such as tinnitus or hearing impairment may indicate a dysfunction of the inner ear. A vague feeling of drowsiness, swaying vertigo or an undirected tendency to fall are typical signs for neurological causes. A final diagnosis can usually only be made after special balance and coordination tests.
Diagnosis
But not only the diagnosis, but also the therapy is a difficult task for sufferers and therapists. Since not all vertigo can be treated causally, symptomatic drugs are generally prescribed initially. They are intended to alleviate the symptoms first and prevent worsening by anxiety-related restraint. A major disadvantage of drugs, however, is that they make more or less tired and thereby increase the risk of falling under certain circumstances.
Therefore, balance training is the means of choice. Through balance training, the brain learns to compensate for any dysfunction and restore a new balance. Exercise, physiotherapy or modern biofeedback methods promote this learning process and lead to less discomfort and more safety in everyday life. They help to prevent falls sustainably improve the quality of life.
Further information on vertigo and its many causes can be found here.
Author: Dr. med. Uso Walter (ENT specialist)
READ MORE