Feeling dizzy, unsteady, or like the room is spinning can be worrying. Many people in Sydney experience vertigo, a condition that affects balance and daily activities. Vertigo often happens because of problems in the inner ear, but it can also be linked to migraines, infections, or other health issues.
The good news is that you are not powerless. Simple exercises to improve balance can help retrain your body, reduce dizziness, and restore confidence. Alongside professional vertigo treatment in Sydney, balance exercises can support recovery and prevent falls.
At The Movement Mill, we work with patients experiencing dizziness, balance loss, and vertigo. Our physiotherapists use proven programs that combine therapy, exercise, and lifestyle guidance. If your symptoms are frequent or severe, it’s important to see a GP in Sydney. A doctor can rule out serious conditions and may refer you for physiotherapy if needed.
This article explains what vertigo is and shares the top 5 exercises for vertigo that you can practice at home to regain balance.
Understanding Vertigo and Balance Problems
Vertigo is different from normal dizziness. It often feels like you or your surroundings are spinning, even when you are still. Some people also feel lightheaded, unsteady, or find it hard to walk in a straight line. These symptoms can last for seconds, minutes, or even hours depending on the cause.
The inner ear plays a key role in balance. When tiny calcium crystals in the ear move out of place, it can confuse your brain and lead to vertigo. This is called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is one of the most common types.
Other causes include infections, fluid build-up, or nerve conditions. Whatever the cause, balance exercises for vertigo can train your brain to adapt. Over time, they improve coordination and reduce dizziness.
If vertigo is severe or doesn’t go away, it’s time to consult a GP in Sydney. A GP can check your overall health and guide you toward the right vertigo treatment near me options, including physiotherapy.
Top 5 Exercises to Improve Balance and Reduce Vertigo
1. Brandt-Daroff Exercise
The Brandt-Daroff exercise is one of the easiest home exercises for vertigo. It is designed to reduce dizziness by teaching your brain to get used to unusual balance signals.
How to do it:
- Sit on the edge of your bed or chair.
- Turn your head slightly to the left, then quickly lie down on your right side.
- Stay for 30 seconds or until vertigo stops.
- Sit back up.
- Now turn your head slightly to the right and lie down on your left side.
- Repeat 5–10 times.
This exercise is simple and effective. Many people doing vertigo exercises in Sydney find that their symptoms reduce over a few weeks of practice.
2. Semont Maneuver
The Semont maneuver is slightly more advanced and works well for certain types of vertigo. It helps reposition inner ear crystals and restore balance.
How to do it:
- Sit on the edge of your bed.
- Turn your head slightly upward.
- Quickly lie down on one side and hold for 1 minute.
- Without stopping, move to the other side while keeping your head tilted upward.
- Stay for another minute before sitting up.
While it can be done at home, many people choose to learn it under professional supervision. At The Movement Mill Sydney, our physiotherapists often include this in tailored vertigo treatment programs.
3. Epley Maneuver
The Epley maneuver is one of the most recommended exercises for vertigo caused by BPPV. It gently guides calcium particles back into their proper position in the inner ear.
How to do it:
- Sit upright on your bed.
- Turn your head 45 degrees to the right.
- Lie down on your back, keeping your head tilted, and stay for 30 seconds.
- Turn your head 90 degrees to the left, hold for 30 seconds.
- Roll onto your left side, hold for 30 seconds.
- Sit up slowly.
This maneuver is very effective, but it can cause brief dizziness while practicing. A GP in Sydney or physiotherapist can guide you the first time to make sure you are doing it correctly.
4. Standing Balance Exercise (Feet Together)
Sometimes the simplest movements are the most helpful. This exercise improves stability and reduces the risk of falling.
How to do it:
- Stand with your feet together and arms by your side.
- Focus your eyes on a fixed point.
- Hold the position for 30–60 seconds.
- To increase the challenge, close your eyes or stand on one foot.
This is one of the best simple balance exercises at home for people managing dizziness. It helps strengthen coordination and confidence in movement.
5. Tai Chi and Heel-to-Toe Walking
Gentle exercises such as Tai Chi are excellent for balance and relaxation. The slow, flowing movements reduce stress, improve posture, and help your brain process balance signals.
Heel-to-toe walking is another easy option:
- Walk in a straight line by placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other.
- Keep your eyes forward.
- Take 10–15 steps, turn, and repeat.
Physiotherapists offering vertigo treatment in Sydney often recommend these practices. They are safe, calming, and highly effective for improving stability.
Additional Tips for Managing Vertigo
Exercises are powerful, but lifestyle habits also play an important role. Here are some extra tips:
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can trigger dizziness.
- Move carefully: Avoid quick head movements.
- Sleep well: Rest helps the body adapt.
- Stay active: Walking and stretching support balance.
- Seek professional care: If symptoms continue, consider physiotherapy for vertigo in Sydney.
Combining these tips with regular exercises provides the best chance of reducing vertigo naturally.
When to See a GP in Sydney
While home exercises help many people, some symptoms require medical care. Book an appointment with a GP in Sydney if you experience:
- Sudden or severe dizziness
- Ongoing spinning sensations
- Hearing problems, nausea, or headaches
- Risk of falling or injuries
A GP can guide you to the right vertigo treatment Sydney patients need. They may suggest medication, testing, or referral to a physiotherapist for further care.
Conclusion
Vertigo may feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can regain balance and confidence. The top 5 exercises to improve balance and reduce vertigo—Brandt-Daroff, Semont, Epley, standing balance, and Tai Chi or heel-to-toe walking—are simple, safe, and effective.
At The Movement Mill Sydney, our team provides tailored programs for patients seeking vertigo treatment near me. We combine physiotherapy, exercise, and professional advice to deliver long-term results.
If vertigo affects your life, don’t wait. Contact The Movement Mill Sydney or speak to a GP in Sydney today. With the right care and consistent balance exercises for vertigo, you can reduce dizziness and enjoy everyday activities again.