By Annette Pinder

When it comes to health, things can get complicated and confusing, especially when something out of the ordinary happens to you. For me, it was waking up one morning and finding that when I tried to get out of bed, a force seemed to be pushing me back down. Everything was swirling around me. It was as though I was on an exceedingly fast merry-go-round from which there was no exit. Worst of all, I wasn’t sure what was happening to me, and I had no idea who to call.

According to the National Dizziness and Balance Center, millions of Americans suffer from balance disorders that they describe as dizziness or vertigo. For some, it is a feeling of unsteadiness, while for others, like me, it can be a frightening sensation of having the whole room spinning around them. Not only are you compromised in being able to function normally, but also you are at a loss as to the type of health care professional who might be able to help.

Up to 40% of Americans experience dizziness and vertigo that is serious enough to go to a doctor. “Often, individuals who experience dizziness and vertigo are surprised to learn that the cause is often due to an inner ear or vestibular problem known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). BPPV is a condition that is often treatable with just a few appointments with a vestibular physical therapist,” says Dr. Salvatore Gruttadauria, AuD, Owner and CEO of Diversified Hearing • Rehabilitation • Balance (Diversified).

“BPPV is commonly treated with a specialized physical maneuver that repositions calcium crystals within the inner ear,” explains Dr. Gruttadauria. “Known as a canalith repositioning procedure (CRP), the maneuver consists of a series of guided head movements that successfully relocate the crystals within the semicircular canals that are causing the symptoms. This treatment is often highly effective, with many patients experiencing immediate relief after just one session,” says Dr. Gruttadauria.

For other vestibular conditions, advanced diagnostics may be required. Dr. Gruttadauria notes that Diversified’s audiology team employs state-of-the-art tools to thoroughly assess inner ear function and pinpoint the underlying causes of dizziness and balance disorders. These diagnostic procedures help identify the root of the issue and highlight areas that could benefit from targeted vestibular therapy, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. The Diversified team collaborates with a network of specialized health care providers to ensure comprehensive care for each patient.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to BPPV, dizziness, balance issues, or fear of falling, don’t wait — relief is available. Contact Diversified today at 716-362-1552, or visit www.diversifiedwny.com, and schedule an appointment at a location convenient to you, in Williamsville, Kenmore, Orchard Park, Lockport, Niagara Falls, or Warsaw.

An award-winning practice, Diversified offers comprehensive services in Audiology and Hearing Aid Solutions, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology (including Voice and Swallowing Therapy), and Vestibular (Dizziness and Balance) Assessment and Treatment for both children and adults.