Grounded | The Vestibular Podcast

Dr. Madison Oak, PT, DPT

Vestibular Physical Therapist, and the founder of The Vertigo Doctor

  1. 5d ago

    154. How to Get a Dizziness Diagnosis with Bonus Resource Guide

    If you’ve been to a million and one doctors and still don’t have a clear diagnosis—you are not alone, and you are not crazy.  Dizziness is notoriously undertreated, and a lot of providers just don’t like dealing with it.  So in this episode, I’m giving you a comprehensive resource guide: which providers to see, what to ask when you call, and what tests are available so you’re better prepared for what you’re walking into. This is the episode I wish existed when people first started experiencing dizziness. Share it and save it so you can refer back to it.  And remember, finding the right provider can make all the difference! A willing-to-learn provider beats a dismissive expert every single time. In this episode, we’ll dig into: Why dizziness is so often undertreated The difference between an ENT, neurotologist, and otologist Medical providers you may want to reach out to for support Why you’ll want to make sure to call the office first What a board-certified headache specialist is Questions to ask any provider before booking A full overview of vestibular testing What to expect after most tests are run The Bárány Society as a resource Additional resources available inside Vestibular Group Fit Getting the right diagnosis starts with knowing who to see, what to ask, and what to expect. And now, you have a roadmap to help you get started. Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit Trusted Providers Worksheet (available inside Vestibular Group Fit under the community tab) The Bárány Society: https://www.thebaranysociety.org/ How to find a provider Searching local health systems for types of providers/departments based on the area you’re looking to schedule American Neurotology Society (ENT with special focus on neurological disorders of inner ear and other related structures) American Migraine Foundation Find a Doctor National Headache Foundation Find a Provider UK National Migraine Centre Migraine Canada Find a Headache Specialist Neurahealth national headache medicine clinic Binocular vision dysfunction provider directory Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. dizziness diagnosis, vestibular migraine, living with vestibular disorder, ENT, neurotologist, otologist, chronic dizziness, medical provider, vestibular disorder diagnosis, vestibular disorder treatment, vestibular rehabilitation therapy, vestibular group fit, occupational therapist, neuro-optometrist, vertigo

    154. How to Get a Dizziness Diagnosis with Bonus Resource Guide
  2. Aug 18

    153. Hormones, Histamine, and Your Vestibular Disorder w/ Dr. Saru Bala

    “Progesterone will hold up the mirror for you and show you about your habits. Estrogen is forgiving—progesterone is not.” For so many women with vestibular disorders, symptoms get dramatically worse right before their period or around ovulation, and the answer they’re usually given is “take birth control” or “drink more water.”  That, of course, is not enough. I brought in Dr. Saru Bala, Naturopathic Doctor and Women’s Hormonal Health Specialist, to break it all down. Get ready to nerd out on all things hormones! In this episode, we’re talking about what hormones actually are, how your cycle phases impact your vestibular symptom, why your liver is way more important than you think, the estrogen-histamine-MCAS loop, and what bloodwork you should be asking for. In this episode, we’ll dig into: What are hormones What to pay attention to with women’s hormones The phases of your cycle What progesterone is reflecting back about your habits  The basics that impact your hormones the most Bloodwork Dr. Saru recommends for her clients Why you want to get a full thyroid panel The liver’s role in hormone metabolism How to support your liver The estrogen-histamine loop How MCAS plays a role here Why gut & liver support are essential for histamine, MCAS, and hormone issues Why women are taking much longer to feel better than even 5 years ago If you take nothing else away from this, remember your hormones, liver, gut, and nervous system are all talking to each other. When you start supporting them, things are able to start changing. Meet: Dr. Saru Bala Dr. Saru Bala is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor with a degree from Bastyr University in Seattle, WA. Prior to attending medical school, she graduated from University of Texas at Austin where she received her bachelor’s degree in Neurobiology. She’s done extra training in women’s health and naturopathic endocrinology and wants to talk to you about all things women’s health. Connect w/ Dr Saru Bala Website: https://www.drsarubala.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarubala Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/periodpractice Period Solutions Academy: https://www.drsarubala.com/periodsolutionsacademy Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit Rise Centered Alarm Clock: https://risecentered.com?sca_ref=7113075.4mnDvPsCZ8H Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. hormonal health, women’s health, naturopathic doctor, vestibular migraine, chronic dizziness, birth control, vestibular disorders, PMDD, what is optimal bloodwork, optimal lab values, thyroid panel, lifestyle changes, period problems, understand your period, gut liver and hormone connection

    153. Hormones, Histamine, and Your Vestibular Disorder w/ Dr. Saru Bala
  3. Aug 11

    152. Go-To Activity List for High Symptom Days

    Having a list or “menu” of ideas for what to do on those higher symptom days can be helpful to have before you actually need it. This could be a time when you’re riding out an attack and looking for things to do that are gentle but stimulating to help pass the time.  Of course, what will be the best fit will depend on the person and the symptoms on a given day. Save this episode to come back to because I’m walking through a whole list of low-demand activities that can be enjoyable on higher symptom days. In this episode, we’ll dig into: Why you need a go-to activity list before a high symptom day hits A reminder to always reach for your toolkit first on harder days A variety of gentle indoor and outdoor activities to note An upcoming MCAS webinar you won’t want to miss Having a list of things your brain already trusts on a hard day isn’t just self care, it’s part of your toolkit. Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit MCAS Webinar (August 14, 2026): https://resolvinghistamine.heysummit.com/ Seek App: https://www.inaturalist.org/pages/seek_app Petals and Profanity coloring book: https://amzn.to/49VMBTC The 15 Puzzle (slider game): https://amzn.to/4vjoZ40 Sagrada board game: https://amzn.to/4fMGN2l Carcassonne board game: https://amzn.to/4ejqbgk Flip 7 card game: https://amzn.to/4vHK5su Five Crowns card game: https://amzn.to/44bNuUw Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. activity list, MCAS webinar, living with vestibular disorder, vestibular group fit, vestibular migraine, chronic dizziness, PPPD, vestibular disorder symptoms, manage vestibular disorder, migraine toolkit, vestibular disorder flare, gentle movement, what to do during migraine

    152. Go-To Activity List for High Symptom Days
  4. Aug 4

    151. How to Navigate POTS and a Vestibular Disorder

    Vestibular disorders (particularly vestibular migraine) and POTS are often talked about in our practice and in Vestibular Group Fit as they overlap quite a bit. In this episode, I’m digging into one of the most common co-occurring conditions I see in my practice alongside vestibular migraine: POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). I’m also introducing something called the pentad super syndrome (almost every single person I see in my clinic has all five). You’ll learn what it is and what I believe is missing from the list. Discover everything from how POTS is diagnosed, to helpful resources, and why your basics matter more than ever when you’re managing both POTS and vestibular disorders at the same time. In this episode, we’ll dig into: What POTS is The diagnostic criteria for POTS Why there is overlap between POTS and vestibular  What the pentad super syndrome is Why histamine and MCAS are a huge piece of the puzzle The tilt table test vs. active stand test What conditions can sometimes mimic POTS What the CHOP POTS protocol is Why heat is a major POTS and MCAS trigger What tools to keep in your toolkit for heat Lifestyle changes that are beneficial for POTS and vestibular conditions How VGF members apply the threshold and bucket theory to manage both conditions The good news is that the toolkit for your vestibular disorder and your POTS have a LOT of overlap, which means you’re already building the right foundation. Related Episodes: Build Your Migraine Threshold: https://thevertigodoctor.com/podcast/74-build-your-migraine-threshold-to-reduce-vestibular-migraine-attacks/ Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit Standing Up to POTS podcast: https://www.standinguptopots.org/podcast dysautonomiaproject.org  Santosha Spirit on YouTube (Rachel): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0ROkm_8Bjk0qOQ13XYOebg Compression socks: https://sockwellusa.com/ NEWZILL Calf Compression Sleeve: https://www.amazon.com/NEWZILL-Calf-Compression-Sleeve-Footless/dp/B0DRYS7KBD/ Doc Miller Calf Compression Sleeves: https://www.amazon.com/Doc-Miller-Compression-20-30mmHg-Fashionable/dp/B012E1B5P6/ LMNT electrolytes: https://www.amazon.com/LMNT-Zero-Sugar-Electrolytes/dp/B084HQ4DYQ/ Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. Citations “Research Summary: Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)….” American Headache Society, 2022, americanheadachesociety.org/research/library/research-summary-postural-orthostatic-tachycardia-syndrome-pots-and-migraine-a-narrative-review. Cleveland Clinic. “Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).” Cleveland Clinic, 9 Sept. 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16560-postural-orthostatic-tachycardia-syndrome-pots. POTS and vestibular disorders, vestibular migraine, histamine and MCAS, chronic dizziness, PPPD, nervous system regulation for vestibular migraine, migraine management, stress relief, vestibular disorders, vestibular group fit, nervous system regulation, vestibular disorder treatment

    151. How to Navigate POTS and a Vestibular Disorder
  5. Jul 28

    150. A Guide to Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, & Your Vestibular Disorder

    You’ve probably heard the words ‘biofeedback’ and ‘neurofeedback’ floating around the internet. And you’re also probably wondering what they mean and if they’re worth your time and money when you have a vestibular disorder. I’m answering all of that in this episode! Biofeedback is a type of mind-body technique to control some of the body’s function. And neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that measures and records brainwaves. As always, I’ve got research and scenarios for us to talk through to help this really land. They’re probably not the first thing you want to invest in and there are even less expensive options that are equally or more effective which I share more about in the episode. Buckle up and let’s get a little nerdy with this one! In this episode, we’ll dig into: What biofeedback is and how it works What the main types of biofeedback are What neurofeedback is and how it relates to biofeedback The difference between active and passive neurofeedback The two main models of biofeedback that exist What to expect in a biofeedback session What biofeedback is considered effective for Types of neurofeedback and biofeedback sessions, devices, and apps available How to find a qualified biofeedback provider What questions to ask before committing to either option If you want to go even deeper with what you heard in this episode, we have coaching calls specifically about biofeedback and neurofeedback available in Vestibular Group Fit. Biofeedback is a tool, not a cure. But if you’re curious, informed, and financially comfortable exploring it, it absolutely can have a place in your vestibular toolkit. Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit Certification from the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (AAPB) site has an option to find a practitioner: https://aapb.org/Find_a_Practitioner  Hearthmath: https://www.heartmath.com/  Resperate (FDA approved for blood pressure and stress): https://resperate.com  Leva (FDA approved for pelvic floor): https://levacares.com/  Prism (FDA approved for PTSD): https://www.graymatters-health.com/prism-for-ptsd  Finding a provider International society for neuroregulation and research: https://isnr.org/ Biofeedback certification international alliance: https://www.bcia.org/ Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. Citations Frank, D. L., Khorshid, L., Kiffer, J. F., Moravec, C. S., & McKee, M. G. (2010). Biofeedback in medicine: who, when, why and how?. Mental health in family medicine, 7(2), 85–91. Mayo Clinic. “Biofeedback – Mayo Clinic.” Mayoclinic.org, 18 Mar. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/biofeedback/about/pac-20384664. Marzbani, H., Marateb, H. R., & Mansourian, M. (2016). Neurofeedback: A Comprehensive Review on System Design, Methodology and Clinical Applications. Basic and clinical neuroscience, 7(2), 143–158. https://doi.org/10.15412/J.BCN.03070208 Bazzana, F., Finzi, S., Di Fini, G., & Veglia, F. (2022). Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback: A Systematic Mixed Studies Review. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 16, 920659. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2022.920659 Duke, G., Yotter, C. N., Sharifian, B., Duke, G., & Petersen, S. (2024). The effectiveness of microcurrent neurofeedback on depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and quality of life. Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, 36(2), 100–109. https://doi.org/10.1097/JXX.0000000000000945 Cleveland Clinic. “Biofeedback: What Is It & Procedure Details.” Cleveland Clinic, 21 Dec. 2020, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/13354-biofeedback. biofeedback and neurofeedback, biofeedback vs neurofeedback, vestibular group fit, VGF, vestibular disorders, chronic dizziness, PPPD, nervous system regulation, migraine management, stress relief, alternative therapies, holistic approach, living with vestibular migraine, living with vertigo, migraine toolkit, vestibular disorder treatment

    150. A Guide to Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, & Your Vestibular Disorder
  6. Jul 21

    149. Task Switching is Impacting Your Dizziness More Than You Realize

    One thing that a lot of people with vestibular disorders notice is how fatiguing or challenging different tasks become over time.  What’s happening is your brain is trying to process multiple inputs (or even tasks) at the same time.  For those with vestibular disorders, it becomes more difficult because your body is trying to process more information—and it’s also now having to work double time to keep you upright. Multitasking and task switching are a part of daily life, but it comes with costs. And those with vestibular disorders often notice this more but aren’t quite sure how to make it go away. But this episode is here to help! In this episode, we’ll dig into: Why tasks feel manageable alone but become overwhelming when combined How multitasking and task switching are similar and different What the “switch cost” is and how it adds up over time for those with vestibular disorders What percentage of people with vestibular conditions experience cognitive symptoms like brain fog How the central nervous system and cerebral cortices matter for cognitive symptoms Why spatial awareness demands extra resources when you have a vestibular disorder How balance exercises in VRT are designed to gradually scale up task demands Why errors are actually part of healing with a vestibular condition Why rest and recovery are essential when you’re adding in more cognitive or physical tasks Task switching and multitasking are hard for everyone! A vestibular disorder just adds an extra layer—it doesn’t mean things can’t improve, but it does take time, space, and grace. You’re doing more things than you think and certainly doing more than you take credit for. Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. Citations  McGrath, Kim. “The “Switch Cost” of Multitasking.” Wake Forest News, 16 Apr. 2024, news.wfu.edu/2024/04/16/the-switch-cost-of-multitasking/. Asuako, P. A. G., Stojan, R., Bock, O., Mack, M., & Voelcker-Rehage, C. (2025). Multitasking: does task-switching add to the effect of dual-tasking on everyday-like driving behavior?. Cognitive research: principles and implications, 10(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41235-025-00611-y Smith, L. J., Wilkinson, D., Bodani, M., & Surenthiran, S. S. (2024). Cognition in vestibular disorders: state of the field, challenges, and priorities for the future. Frontiers in neurology, 15, 1159174. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1159174 ————————————— task switching and multitasking, things to help with brain fog, vestibular migraine brain fog, what causes brain fog and dizziness, vestibular disorders, vestibular group fit, living with vestibular migraine, living with chronic dizziness, sensory overload, spatial awareness, cognitive abilities

    149. Task Switching is Impacting Your Dizziness More Than You Realize
  7. Jul 14

    148. Navigating Altitude Changes with a Vestibular Disorder

    Heading somewhere with a big elevation change? Good news! Most people living with vestibular disorders actually do really well at altitude. But that doesn’t mean you just show up unprepared and hope for the best. In this episode, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about navigating altitude changes with a vestibular disorder.  From quick pressure shifts like takeoff and landing, to extended stays at higher elevations, I’m sharing what to keep on standby, what to avoid, and why slower adjustments make all the difference. In this episode, we’ll dig into: Why most people with vestibular disorders actually feel good at altitude Tools for quick pressure changes like takeoff, landing, and steep elevation drives The difference between earplanes & WeatherX earplugs Why slower ascents make a huge difference and how to pace your elevation Medications to ask your doctor about before travel Why you most definitely want to rethink alcohol at elevation What self-care tips still apply at altitude The research behind nature being great for your nervous system My thoughts on oxygen bars and vestibular disorders Altitude changes don’t have to derail your trip! With the right prep, the right toolkit, and a slower ascent, you absolutely can enjoy the mountain tops. Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit WeatherX Earplugs: https://amzn.to/4h7Py7N Earplanes: https://amzn.to/4aQji5b Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. Citations “Mountain Vacation? 5 Tips to Cope with Your Altitude Sickness.” Cleveland Clinic, health.clevelandclinic.org/understanding-altitude-sickness-5-best-tips-for-your-next-mountain-trip. ————————————— vertigo and altitude changes, altitude and vertigo, travel and vestibular disorders, vestibular group fit, VGF, living with vestibular disorder, weather & vestibular disorder, change in pressure, inner ear, manage migraine, weatherx earplanes, meniere’s disease, nervous system regulation, chronic dizziness, PPPD

    148. Navigating Altitude Changes with a Vestibular Disorder
  8. Jul 7

    147. Scaling & Pacing Physical Activity with a Vestibular Disorder

    If you’ve ever tried to do too much, crashed hard, and then felt like you were back at square one—this episode is for you. I’m talking about two of the most important concepts we teach in Vestibular Group Fit: scaling and pacing. It cannot be stressed enough how important this is and how much we talk about it in VGF. Scaling and pacing aren’t about doing less forever. They’re about building capacity strategically so you can eventually do MORE without paying for it for days afterward. I’m walking you through real-life examples of how to scale movement, exercise routines, walking, driving, and other daily activities — plus what to do on higher symptom days and post-attack so you can recover faster and get back to living your life. In this episode, we’ll dig into: What scaling and pacing actually mean and how they’re different Why you should never increase more than 10% at a time How to scale things like strength training, walking, and driving The difference between “immediate” responders and “hangover” responders Real-life pacing strategies you can add into your day-to-day life How to scale down on post-attack or high symptom days The 30-day to 30-minute return to walk program results from VGF Summer consistency challenge details for Vestibular Group Fit members Whether it’s exercise, grocery shopping, driving, or attending your nephew’s graduation—the same principles apply. Scaling and pacing are skills. As with any skill, it takes time, practice, and a whole lot of grace and patience with yourself. Links Mentioned: Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit Inside VGF, we have two helpful lessons: Visualization exercises for return to driving, and a 30-day to 30-minute return to walk program Free Resources: ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor Work with Dr. Madison: For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email madison@thevertigodoctor.com Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit! Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/ Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit Love what you heard? Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you! This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. physical activity intensity, scaling and pacing, activity pacing, scaling physical activity, vestibular disorder management, chronic dizziness, living with vestibular disorder, migraine attacks, nervous system regulation, exercises to improve balance, return to walking, driving with vestibular disorder, vestibular exercises

    147. Scaling & Pacing Physical Activity with a Vestibular Disorder
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About

Vestibular Physical Therapist, and the founder of The Vertigo Doctor

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