Why do I still feel wobbly after my BPPV crystals were cleared?

Why do I feel off balance, like walking on a boat, after vertigo?

Several things can contribute: small amounts of debris left in the canal, imbalance in the otolith organs that sense gravity and linear motion, and a brain that adapted to the vertigo by stiffening posture and relying heavily on vision¹. Worry about the next spell can add to it. The result is a sensory mismatch that feels like walking on a boat.

How long does residual dizziness last?

For most people it settles within a few days to a few weeks. Older age, a longer delay before treatment and anxiety are associated with it lasting longer¹. If unsteadiness continues beyond a few weeks, or you start avoiding movement, it is time for a balance assessment rather than more waiting.

How do you treat residual dizziness?

First we recheck every canal under infrared video goggles to confirm the BPPV is gone. BioSway computerized balance testing then shows whether you are over-relying on vision. Treatment uses habituation, gaze stabilization and balance training on firm and foam surfaces to recalibrate how your brain weighs inner ear, visual and foot signals. Most people need only a few visits.

Can I get a BPPV recheck in Alpharetta or Cumming?

Yes, including if you were treated somewhere else, such as urgent care or another clinic. Patients from Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Cumming, Suwanee and Roswell can book a 60-minute, one-on-one visit, with urgent appointments within 48 hours.

Where can I get help in Alpharetta, Cumming and nearby?

Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPS and our team of physical therapists see patients from Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, Suwanee, Sugar Hill, Buford, Duluth and Forsyth County at two North Atlanta clinics. Every visit is 60 minutes, one-on-one, and urgent appointments are available within 48 hours. We are in-network with Traditional Medicare, BCBS / Anthem and Tricare, and offer a $129 rate per visit for self-pay and out-of-network plans. Not sure where to start? Take the free symptom self-check, or visit our Alpharetta clinic or Cumming clinic page.

Related care

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References

1. Giommetti G, et al. Residual dizziness after successful repositioning treatment in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: a review. Audiology Research. 2017.
2. Bhattacharyya N, et al. Clinical Practice Guideline: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (Update). Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. 2017.

Answered by Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPSDoctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Vestibular Specialist and one of the few certified Therapeutic Pain Specialists in North Atlanta, with 15+ years of outpatient care. About Dr. Patel

This answer is general education, not a diagnosis or a substitute for an examination. If you have new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. Call 911 for sudden severe dizziness with trouble speaking, weakness, numbness, double vision or a severe headache.