What is vertigo balance exercises?

Exercises can help you improve your balance when you have vertigo. Your vertigo symptoms may improve within a few days to a few weeks.

Level 1 exercises include the Romberg exercise, standing sway exercises, and marching in place. These are "beginner" exercises. Over time you may try level 2 exercises, such as turning in place and doing head movements while standing. These are a little harder than level 1 exercises.

With each exercise, start out slowly. Over time, you can gradually try to do the exercise for a longer time or do more repetitions. When you first begin, if possible, have someone with you in case you feel like you're going to fall. As you progress, you may be able to do some of the exercises on your own.

Exercise 1

While sitting on the side of the bed and holding your head still:

• Look up as far as you can.
• Look down as far as you can.
• Look from side to side as far as you can.
• Stretch your arm straight out in front of you. Focus on your index finger. Continue to focus on your finger while you bring it to your nose.

Exercise 2

While sitting on the side of the bed:

• Bring your head as far back as you can.
• Bring your head forward to touch your chin to your chest.
• Turn your head from side to side.
• Do these exercises first with your eyes open. Then try with your eyes closed.

Exercise 3

While sitting on the side of the bed:

• Shrug your shoulders straight upward, then relax them.
• Bend over and try to touch the ground with your fingers. Then go back to a sitting position.
• Toss a small ball from one hand to the other. Throw the ball higher than your eyes so you have to look up.

Exercise 4

While standing (with someone close by if you feel uncomfortable):

• Repeat Exercise 1.
• Repeat Exercise 2.
• Pass a ball between your legs and above your head.
• Sit down and then stand up. Repeat. Turn around in a circle a different way each time you stand.
• With someone close by to help you, try the above exercises with your eyes closed.

Exercise 5

In a room that is cleared of obstacles:

• Walk to a corner of the room, turn to your right, and walk back to the starting point. Now, repeat and turn left.
• Walk up and down a slope. Now try stairs.
• While holding on to someone's arm, try these exercises with your eyes closed.