Talk Dizzy To Me

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, Dr. Abbie Ross sits down with vestibular rehabilitation expert Laura Morris, PT, NCS to explore individualized treatment approaches for vestibular migraine. They discuss the importance of patient education, lifestyle modifications, sensory integration, and graded exposure to visual motion when managing dizziness and persistent vestibular symptoms.

From distinguishing vestibular migraine from BPPV and PPPD to navigating exercise intolerance, visual dependence, and fear avoidance, Laura shares practical strategies for clinicians and patients alike. Discover why vestibular rehabilitation isn't one-size-fits-all and how building confidence, restoring function, and empowering patients can transform recovery.

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts.

Episode Timestamps

00:15 – Meet Laura Morris

03:18 – Evaluating vestibular migraine

05:43 – Diagnosis and medical management

07:32 – Comprehensive vestibular rehabilitation

10:49 – Lifestyle modifications and migraine management

14:35 – Exercise and individualized treatment

17:55 – Episodic vs. persistent vestibular migraine

20:24 – Medical and psychological support

23:49 – When vestibular rehab makes symptoms worse

26:27 – Visual dependence and sensory integration

28:23 – Grounding, habituation, and visual motion sensitivity

31:35 – Managing symptoms in grocery stores

34:24 – Making rehabilitation functional and enjoyable

36:01 – Overcoming fear avoidance

38:24 – Gaze stabilization exercises

40:51 – Differentiating BPPV from vestibular migraine

43:50 – Two vestibular migraine patient case studies

49:48 – Rethinking migraine triggers and hypervigilance

51:29 – Encouragement for patients feeling stuck

53:07 – Celebrating progress and small wins

Finding the right provider for dizziness can be a long and frustrating process. In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, we welcome back Patrick Esmonde to introduce Dizzy Care Network, a platform designed to help connect people experiencing dizziness with clinicians who are best suited to evaluate their symptoms.

We explore how the platform works for both patients and providers, the technology and clinical reasoning behind its matching process, and how it could help reduce the time spent searching for answers. We also discuss what Patrick and his team have learned so far and their vision for the future of more accessible, efficient, and individualized vestibular care.

Learn More Here: https://dz.care/TDR

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts.

Timestamps

00:13 – Meet Patrick Esmonde

00:54 – From Vestibular First to Dizzy Care Network

05:32 – The problem with finding vestibular care

08:07 – Who is Dizzy Care Network for?

12:32 – The patient questionnaire

14:26 – Making the platform dizziness-friendly

18:04 – Symptoms, timing & triggers

18:25 – How patient-provider matching works

22:47 – Customizing your provider match

25:12 – Building an evidence-based questionnaire

28:06 – DHI, PHQ-8 & GAD-7 integration

30:13 – Improving the vestibular evaluation

33:05 – Beta testing & unexpected lessons

36:45 – Expanding access across the U.S.

38:05 – Virtual vestibular care

40:57 – The future of Dizzy Care Network

42:38 – Using it as a clinician intake tool

45:13 – Expanding dizziness diagnoses & symptom clusters

48:29 – Is Dizzy Care Network free?

50:10 – Data, growth & future possibilities

In this special episode of Talk Dizzy to Me, we’re joined by members of the Dizzy Moms Club for an honest conversation about the challenges of parenting with vestibular disorders, including vestibular migraine, PPPD (Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness), vestibular neuritis, unilateral vestibular hypofunction, BPPV, and Ménière’s disease.

Our guests share their lived experiences navigating the unpredictable nature of dizziness while raising children—and the strategies they’ve learned for adapting without losing meaningful connection with their families.

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a review!⁠⁠

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts.

Episode Timestamps

00:13 – Introduction: Parenting While Dizzy

01:14 – Meet the Dizzy Moms Club

06:41 – Adapting Parenting on Dizzy Days

11:02 – Prioritizing & Pacing

14:51 – Making Treatment Plans Fit Real Life

19:28 – Fitting Vestibular Rehab Into Motherhood

26:22 – Sleep & Vestibular Symptoms

28:56 – Mom Guilt & Giving Yourself Grace

39:55 – The Power of Support & Community

43:49 – Learning to Ask for Help

49:54 – A Message of Hope for Dizzy Parents

51:36 – What Clinicians Need to Understand

53:28 – Dizzy Moms Club & Dizzy Parents Day

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Dani Tolman, PT sit down with Dr. David Sandlin, a vestibular and oculomotor neurologist at Emory Brain Health Center, to discuss how eye movements can provide critical clues to progressive neurologic diseases.

From Parkinson's disease and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) to Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), cerebellar disorders, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Dr. Sandlin explains how a detailed bedside eye movement examination can detect neurologic disease long before imaging does. He shares the clinical reasoning behind evaluating nystagmus, saccades, smooth pursuit, VOR testing, and other vestibular examination findings that help differentiate central from peripheral causes of dizziness.

This episode also discusses the importance of making timely referrals and understanding where vestibular rehabilitation fits into the care of progressive neurologic disorders.

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ Our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, ⁠⁠⁠⁠use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first payment⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch podcast episodes (and more) on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a review!⁠

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts.

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Dr. David Sandlin

02:15 – Why Dr. Sandlin specialized in vestibular & ocular motor neurology

06:05 – What are progressive neurologic diseases?

08:15 – Can dizziness be the first symptom?

10:55 – How Dr. Sandlin evaluates dizzy patients

12:45 – Eye movement examination: fixation, nystagmus & ocular alignment

15:35 – Saccades and what they reveal about the brain

18:25 – Smooth pursuit, convergence & VOR suppression

21:50 – Why eye movements reveal so much about neurologic disease

24:20 – Vestibular testing beyond the bedside exam

26:10 – Red flag patterns of nystagmus clinicians should recognize

28:55 – Hypermetric saccades, stroke & cerebellar findings

30:20 – Pendular nystagmus and multiple sclerosis

32:10 – MRI: when imaging helps—and when your clinical exam is better

36:45 – Central vs. peripheral findings: what provides reassurance?

41:45 – Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP): recognizing early signs

45:10 – Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), Parkinsonism & autonomic dysfunction

49:20 – AI, ChatGPT & patients researching their symptoms

51:00 – The future of AI-assisted eye movement analysis

53:00 – Virtual reality and the future of vestibular diagnostics

56:25 – Key takeaways for patients and clinicians

In this episode of Talk Dizzy to Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Dani Tolman, PT are joined by Dr. Ben Shaw, a London-based consultant audiovestibular physician specializing in dizziness, vertigo, balance disorders, tinnitus, and hearing loss.

Dr. Shaw explains how he evaluates patients with vague, recurrent, or chronic dizziness and why understanding the timing, triggers, and associated symptoms is essential for reaching the correct diagnosis.

The conversation discusses various vestibular conditions, including Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vestibular migraine, Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (3PD/PPPD), and Cerebellar Ataxia, Neuropathy, and Vestibular Areflexia Syndrome (CANVAS).

The episode also includes an in-depth discussion of tinnitus. Dr. Shaw explains why tinnitus is a symptom rather than a diagnosis and presents a holistic approach to tinnitus management.

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ Our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, ⁠⁠⁠use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first payment⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get free resources straight to your inbox⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch podcast episodes (and more) on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a review!

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts.

Time Stamps
00:15 Meet Dr. Ben Shaw

01:34 Audiovestibular medicine explained

02:53 Evaluating dizziness

06:12 The vestibular examination

07:59 When additional testing is needed

08:55 Central red flags

10:23 Vestibular migraine and PPPD

11:49 Vestibular neuritis

12:19 Ménière’s disease

13:44 Neuritis vs. labyrinthitis

16:04 Understanding tinnitus

18:27 Managing tinnitus

20:46 CBT, mindfulness, and habituation

22:39 Tinnitus red flags

23:07 Sudden hearing loss

24:28 Pulsatile and unilateral tinnitus

25:28 Complex dizziness cases

25:58 CANVAS syndrome

27:53 Vestibular migraine and anxiety case

29:21 Treating migraine before vestibular rehab

31:19 Advice for clinicians

34:41 What patients should know about vertigo

36:04 Vestibular suppressant medications

37:03 Preventing vestibular migraine

37:56 Connect with Dr. Ben Shaw

39:21 Closing thoughts

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT are joined by Dr. Katherine Deines, PT, NCS and Dr. Jaimy Wahab, PT, NCS, also known as the Neuro Dizzy Duo, for a deep dive into one of the most overlooked parts of the vestibular system: the otolith organs.

While many people associate vertigo and dizziness with the semicircular canals and spinning sensations, this episode explores how the utricle and saccule help us sense gravity, acceleration, head position, vertical orientation, and linear movement. The conversation highlights why otolith dysfunction may contribute to symptoms such as rocking, swaying, bobbing, feeling pulled or pushed, floating, walking on marshmallows, disorientation, and feeling “off.”

The guests also explain how otolith dysfunction may show up in conditions such as BPPV, vestibular migraine, PPPD/3PD, Mal de Débarquement Syndrome, concussion, dysautonomia, POTS, Parkinson’s disease, and other complex vestibular presentations.

This episode is especially helpful for vestibular clinicians, physical therapists, audiologists, patients with chronic dizziness, and anyone trying to better understand why dizziness is not always “spinning.”

Episode Resources:

Where to find The Dizzy Duo on Instagram: @neuro_dizzy_duo

Email address: info@neurodizzyduo.com

Courses, publications, or resources:

Their Positive Spin on Dizziness advanced vestibular courses cover many lesser discussed topics:otolith dysfunction, the difference between vestibular dysfunction and hypersensitivity, visual motion hypersensitivity, Vestibular Migraine, Mal de Debarquement Syndrome, Meniere’s disease

Recommended products or links: https://www.reactiveeducation.com/store

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ Our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, ⁠⁠use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first payment⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts.

Episode Timestamps:
01:36 – Jaimy's introduction
03:28 – Katherine’s introduction
06:38 – Why otolith organs are often overlooked
09:21 – Why dizziness is not always spinning
12:38 – Conditions linked to otolith dysfunction
16:42 – Otoliths, dysautonomia, POTS, and concussion
21:28 – Understanding linear vertigo and non-spinning dizziness
22:23 – How clinicians assess otolith function
25:14 – Why patient descriptions matter
27:28 – Using weights to help patients feel grounded
30:16 – Individualizing vestibular rehab treatment
31:37 – Head tilts, balance, and otolith-based exercises
35:22 – How much weight may help without overdoing it
39:52 – Vibration plates, BPPV, and vestibular concerns
42:15 – Avoiding overreliance on tools and strategies
44:33 – Astronauts, gravity, and otolith function
46:28 – Key takeaways for vestibular clinicians
52:05 – Key takeaways for patients with dizziness
53:21 – Final thoughts and closing

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT sit down with neurologist Dr. Kristen Steenerson to unpack Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness, also known as 3PD or PPPD.

If you feel dizzy, floaty, rocking, disoriented, or visually overwhelmed most days — especially in places like grocery stores, airports, busy restaurants, or while scrolling screens — this episode explains what may be happening in the brain and nervous system.

Dr. Steenerson breaks down the diagnostic criteria for 3PD, why symptoms can continue even after the original vestibular problem improves, how 3PD overlaps with vestibular migraine, and why treatment often requires a combination of education, vestibular therapy, medication, cognitive strategies, lifestyle support, and gradual exposure.

This conversation also addresses why 3PD is sometimes misunderstood, how hypervigilance plays a role, and why there is real hope for recovery and improved quality of life.

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ Our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, ⁠use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first payment⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts.

Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome to Talk Dizzy To Me
00:15 – Introducing Dr. Kristin Steenerson
01:10 – What is 3PD/PPPD?
01:37 – Diagnostic criteria: persistent, postural, perceptual dizziness
02:47 – Common triggers and risk factors
04:52 – Why some providers question the diagnosis
06:34 – Hypervigilance and lack of biomarkers
08:20 – Why symptoms can continue after the original issue resolves
09:35 – Education, reassurance, and moving from “detective mode” to rehab
11:24 – Brain health habits: sleep, food, exercise, hydration, stress
12:16 – Why symptom tracking can sometimes backfire
15:38 – Why grocery stores, airports, screens, and busy spaces trigger symptoms
17:47 – Fear, memory, and the brain’s threat response
19:39 – Avoidance vs gradual exposure
21:03 – Neurology evaluation and ruling out other causes
23:24 – What vestibular testing can and cannot show
25:14 – The gap in measuring perception
26:34 – fMRI research and brain network changes in 3PD
29:51 – Vestibular therapy for 3PD
31:00 – Medication options and why SSRIs/SNRIs may help
35:38 – 3PD vs vestibular migraine
41:05 – What progress looks like in recovery
43:49 – Permission to do hard things without fear of damage
44:47 – Community support and celebrating wins
45:42 – Future research: medications, CGRP, TMS, neuromodulation
48:54 – Mic drop takeaway for clinicians and patients

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, Dr. Dani Tolman, PT and Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS welcome back Sarah Renberg for her third appearance on the podcast. Sarah shares an inspiring update on her journey after a traumatic brain injury (TBI), vestibular dysfunction, autonomic dysfunction, ocular motor challenges, and more — and how she is now navigating medical school while continuing to manage her health. Sarah offers a powerful patient perspective on recovery, self-advocacy, support systems, and redefining progress after brain injury.

Episode Resources:

-Instagram: @Sren20

-Sarah’s 1st TDTM Episode 2021

-Sarah’s 2nd TDTM Episode 2023

Sarah’s Team on TDTM:

-Dr. Appelbaum

-Dr. Keiser

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Partnered with:

→ Our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first payment⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Just Ingredients, use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 5% off

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Timestamps:

00:58 — Sarah’s TBI, vestibular symptoms & surgical history
02:53 — Understanding symptoms and protecting self-worth
04:40 — How the visual, vestibular, neck & autonomic systems connect
07:02 — Support systems & asking for help
12:31 — Identity shifts after brain injury
13:54 — Resilience vs. “recovery”
16:46 — Embracing hard moments without getting stuck
17:46 — Building systems and routines for success
20:06 — Navigating plateaus, setbacks & goals
22:21 — Rehab habits, consistency & reducing barriers
24:41 — Redefining progress and celebrating small wins
28:30 — Getting through low moments
31:50 — Managing grocery stores and sensory overload
35:43 — Self-advocacy in healthcare appointments
41:26 — What Sarah would tell her 2014 self
46:01 — Being brave enough to try
48:23 — A message for clinicians
49:23 — Resources, where to find Sarah & closing

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Dani Tolman, PT welcome back Dr. Shin Beh for a deeper conversation on the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular migraine, Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD), and Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS).These conditions can overlap, feel confusing, and leave patients feeling stuck in their recovery. Dr. Beh breaks down how he differentiates these diagnoses clinically, why vestibular migraine can precipitate PPPD symptoms, and how treatment plans need a whole-person approach.

Treatment plans may combine lifestyle optimization strategies, vestibular rehabilitation, medication or supplements, neuromodulation, stress management, and more... and should absolutely be individualized.

Whether you're living with chronic dizziness or treating patients with vestibular disorders, this episode offers a practical, compassionate look at why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery.

Episode Resources:

www.vestibularmd.com

Dr. Beh's Books: www.vestibularmd.com/about-dr-beh/books

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™. ⁠⁠⁠Use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first month!⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a review!⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠⁠

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

Timestamps:
01:37 How vestibular migraine, PPPD, and MdDS are diagnosed
04:20 How these conditions overlap
06:29 Why patients can feel stuck in recovery
08:17 Vestibular migraine treatment approach
08:45 Lifestyle foundations for migraine management
10:07 Supplements for vestibular migraine
11:04 Medication and neuromodulation options
12:01 Addressing sleep apnea, neck pain, TMJ, iron, and hormones
14:44 How to layer treatment without the overwhelm
16:03 When supplements, rescue meds, or preventives may be appropriate
18:25 Medication sensitivity and starting low/slow
21:11 PPPD treatment approach
22:08 Vestibular therapy, movement, and visual desensitization
23:59 Medications and neuromodulation for PPPD
25:53 CBT and the dizzy-anxious cycle
26:45 Lab values, vitamin D, B vitamins, magnesium, and ferritin
32:31 Timolol eye drops for migraine rescue
33:53 MdDS treatment approach
34:22 Travel and MdDS
35:44 Therapy for MdDS
36:39 Defining progress beyond symptom reduction
39:05 Knowing when to use rescue medication
43:24 Why vestibular disorders affect more women
45:08 COVID, vestibular dysfunction, and fibromyalgia
48:30 Migraine-related ear symptoms and hearing changes
49:37 Vestibular migraine and vestibular test findings
51:02 Final advice for patients and clinicians

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT sit down with Dr. Yonit Arthur, AuD (aka The Steady Coach) to break down her approach to chronic dizziness recovery.

If you’ve been told “it’s just anxiety,” feel stuck with PPPD (Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness), vestibular migraine, or lingering dizziness... this episode may change how you think about healing.

We explore the role of the brain in chronic symptoms and how recovery is possible through neuroplasticity, not just medication or diagnosis labels.Whether you’re a patient or clinician, this episode offers hope, clarity, and actionable tools.

Episode Resources:

-https://thesteadycoach.com

-Free Healing Chronic Dizziness Course

-The Steady Coach's Youtube Channel

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™. ⁠⁠Use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first month!⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, for FREE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch podcast episodes (and more) on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a review!⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠⁠

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

Timestamps
02:32 – Why traditional approaches to dizziness fall short

03:56 – Personal story: Dr. Yo's mom’s dizziness

06:47 – Why chronic dizziness is deeply misunderstood

09:38 – The harm of “it’s just anxiety” or endless testing

11:04 – Software vs hardware issues1

2:29 – Why symptoms are real

13:56 – Conditions like PPPD, vestibular migraine, and MdDS

16:41 – What makes someone more prone to chronic dizziness

18:01 – Nervous system sensitization explained

19:28 – The cycle that keeps you stuck

21:14 – Does modern society contribute to dizziness?

24:09 – Personality traits: people-pleasers & Type A

26:05 – Lifestyle factors: stress, screens, and overstimulation

27:21 – What does recovery actually look like?

27:49 – You are NOT broken

29:13 – Reframing symptoms: not the enemy

30:09 – Breaking the fear–symptom cycle

32:29 – Practical calming exercise (live demo)

40:01 – Why sitting with symptoms works

40:31 – Pillar #1: Acceptance (reprogramming the brain)

41:29 – Pillar #2: The “Stress Bucket”

46:17 – Pillar #3: Exposure & reducing avoidance

48:14 – The importance of individualized recovery

52:53 – Somatic tracking explained

54:50 – Final message: Hope & healing are possible

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman PT are joined by Dr. Mickey Shah, PT, D.Sc. NCS, OCS, FAAOMPT, Dip. MDT; Certified Vestibular Rehabilitation Specialist - Emory, AVPT (Pittsburgh) to unpack the connection between pain and dizziness.

Together, they explore how the neck plays a critical role in balance, why dizziness isn’t always vestibular, and how clinicians can better assess and treat patients with overlapping symptoms.

From real clinical insights to practical strategies, this episode bridges the gap between vestibular therapy, pain science, and musculoskeletal care—making it a must-watch for clinicians and patients alike.

Episode Resources:

http://www.evidenceceu.com

http://www.goodliferehab.com

Midwest Vestibular Rehab Symposium

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™. ⁠Use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first month!⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get free resources straight to your inbox⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, for FREE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Watch podcast episodes (and more) on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a review!⁠

→ ⁠Avulux glasses, use code DIZZYRESET for $25 off⁠

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

Episode Timestamps

01:26 From neuro rehab to orthopedic & vestibular care
05:18 Why dizziness & pain are not owned by one specialty
06:18 Definition of cervicogenic dizziness (updated understanding)
06:48 Prevalence: How common is it really?
08:14 Cervical spine involvement in dizziness cases
10:12 Why movement loss matters more than pain
11:36 Real-world complexity: vestibular + cervical overlap
14:20 Neck’s role in balance reflexes
17:12 Why function matters more than symptoms
19:07 Testing beyond standard vestibular exams
21:04 Why symptoms alone can mislead treatment
22:02 Helping patients understand the neck-dizziness connection
24:02 Real-life clinical example explained
26:28 Pain science vs dizziness: overlapping principles
27:55 Drivers of symptoms: stress, lifestyle, comorbidities
29:17 Functional neurological disorders & validation
30:41 Nervous system regulation strategies
32:09 Practical tools: breathing, guided imagery, small wins
33:35 Therapist challenges with patient buy-in
35:00 Posture tips that actually work
36:54 Simple, effective home exercise strategies
38:17 Clinical pearls: what clinicians must remember
39:15 Words matter: how language affects recovery
40:13 Using reassurance to reduce fear
41:35 Why joy and meaningful activity matter in recovery
44:06 Empowerment: patients can change and improve

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS is joined by vestibular and neuro experts Dr. Carly Lochala, PT, NCS and Dr. Sara MacDowell, PT to break down facial paralysis, including Bell’s palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, and facial nerve recovery.

They dive into how facial paralysis affects not just movement, but also confidence, communication, and daily life... and what both clinicians and patients need to know about assessment, treatment, and recovery.

Key Takeaways:

- Facial paralysis is commonly caused by Bell’s palsy, but can also result from Ramsay Hunt syndrome, tumors, trauma, or infections

- The facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) controls facial expression, taste, tear production, and more

- Recovery depends on degree of nerve damage, not just diagnosis

- You cannot “exercise” your way out of paralysis early on... the nerve must heal first

- Improper exercises or overstimulation can worsen recovery

- Facial paralysis has a major psychosocial impact

- There are treatment options—even long-term—despite common myths

Episode Resources:

⁠https://facialtherapyspecialists.com/⁠

⁠https://www.facialpalsy.org.uk/⁠

⁠http://bellspalsy.ws/⁠

​​⁠https://facialparalysisfoundation.org/bells-palsy/⁠Webinar:

⁠Sara's Webinar

Where to Find Sara: @dizzydiagnostics

Where to Find Carly: @balancingactrehab

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™. Use code TALKDIZZYTOME for 40% off your first month!

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get free resources straight to your inbox⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our online program and community, The Dizzy Reset™, for FREE⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Dani Tolman, PT are joined by vestibular PT and social media educator Dr. Amy Moore , PT to break down some of the biggest myths and misconceptions about dizziness, vertigo, and vestibular rehab.

If you've ever been told “your tests are normal so nothing is wrong,” “just take meclizine,” or “do the Epley maneuver and it will fix everything,” this episode is for you.

Together they discuss what’s myth vs fact in the world of dizziness, why vestibular conditions are often misunderstood, and what patients should actually know about vestibular rehab.

Whether you're a patient living with dizziness, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about how the vestibular system works, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

-Normal tests don’t mean your dizziness is made up

-Meclizine should not be used long-term

-Good vestibular rehab is much more than physical exercises

-A little dizziness during therapy is necessary

-Not all dizziness or vertigo is due to BPPV

-There's no silver bullet when it comes to chronic dizziness

-Movement helps recovery

Where to find Amy: @thedizzypt_amy

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

Episode Timestamps:

04:32 Myth or Fact: If imaging is normal, nothing is wrong
06:24 Myth or Fact: Meclizine is not a long-term solution for vertigo
08:14 Myth or Fact: Vestibular rehab is only eye and head exercises
10:21 Myth or Fact: If exercises make you dizzy, they’re harmful
11:49 Myth or Fact: There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for dizziness
13:38 Myth or Fact: Anxiety causes dizziness
15:29 Myth or Fact: BPPV isn’t always easy to diagnose or treat
21:27 Myth or Fact: Rest and avoidance are the best treatment
23:50 Myth or Fact: There is a quick fix for chronic dizziness
26:58 Myth or Fact: Everyone with dizziness should get a VNG
32:27 Myth or Fact: Waiting until dizziness fully resolves can slow recovery
33:36 Myth or Fact: If you’re not better by now, you never will be

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT sit down with Kayla McCain, who shares her lived experience with Vestibular Migraine and PPPD (Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness).

Kayla opens up about what symptoms she experienced, the long road to getting correctly diagnosed, and the strategies that helped her get back to living life again and rebuilding her confidence.

Key Takeaways:

-Validation and education reduce fear

-Vestibular migraine vs. PPPD presentations

-Recovery is often multi-factorial

-The “dizzy–anxious-dizzy cycle” is real

-Small strategies matter in real life

-Advocate for yourself

Where to find Kayla: @true_kaylaisms

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

Timestamps
02:10 Kayla’s background + work
03:03 The beginning: Halloween onset + “felt like a stroke” + terrifying dizziness
05:23 ER visit, fever, CT scan, ruled out cancer, sent home with meclizine
05:53 Misdiagnoses: anxiety dismissal + MS misdiagnosis (twice) + diagnosis finally at ~7 months
06:49 Early clues: menstrual migraine patterns + computer screen symptoms
08:43 Life impact: fear, avoiding leaving home, stopping running, weight gain, depression/anxiety
09:10 Panic + MRI + “Alice in Wonderland syndrome” episode during a trip
11:00 What is Alice in Wonderland syndrome?
11:58 How Kayla describes vestibular migraine
13:54 Triggers: hormones, stress, overstimulation, lights/sounds, grocery stores, concerts
15:22 Postpartum: aura/floaters, attacks while caring for an infant, fear of falling while holding baby
17:13 Trust + parenting: setting limits, positioning for safety, saying “no” when needed
19:33 Persistent vs episodic phases + supplements/therapy + later meds after kids
20:29 Feeling “seen”: why diagnosis and education changed everything
25:08 What helped most: counseling, vestibular therapy, exercise, pacing, rescue meds, acceptance
29:51 Practical tips: shopping at low-traffic times, migraine glasses, planned breaks, quiet resets
31:24 Resilience through chronic illness
32:51 Message for people with vestibular migraine + suspected 3PD: same principles can work again
36:13 VM vs 3PD: how symptoms felt different
39:03 3PD treatment journey: sensitive to meds, trying options, continued exercise, gradual dosing approach
42:26 Improvements
43:54 Advocacy + right provider: feeling heard is half the battle
45:19 Don’t give up: treatment options + therapy + counseling + meds (if needed)
46:16 Hope in action: Kayla races again
47:14 Where to follow Kayla: Instagram @true_true_kaylaisims
47:41 Closing thoughts: hope, mindset, and a path forward

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is often misunderstood... but it’s real, common, AND treatable. In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Carly Lochala, PT, NCS sit down with Dr. Julie Hershberg, PT, NCS to explain what FND is, why it’s been minimized in healthcare, and how it overlaps with dizziness, migraine, dysautonomia/POTS, hypermobility/EDS, and vestibular disorders.

They break down brain networks like the default mode network and salience network, discuss common clinical clues (variability, attention-related shifts), and explain how treatment often starts with nervous system regulation, trust-building, and whole-person care—not just exercises.

If you’ve been told your symptoms are “all in your head,” this episode is for you.

Guest: Dr. Julie Hershberg / Reactive PT Instagram: @reactivept

Resources: FND resources hub, reactivept.com/FNDresources

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Carly Lochala, PT, NCS

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to Talk Dizzy To Me (intro)
01:42 What is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)? How to explain it to patients
02:08 FND as a brain network dysfunction (function vs structure)
03:32 Why education improves outcomes in vestibular care + FND
04:02 Why FND has been misunderstood/minimized in healthcare
04:12 From “hysteria” and “conversion disorder” to modern neuroscience
06:05 Harmful stigma: being told symptoms are “fake” + medical trauma
08:19 What to look for when you suspect FND (clinical clues)
09:13 Variability, attention-related shifts, symptoms “moving”
10:35 Screening for other diagnoses + doing a thorough neuro screen
11:04 Common comorbidities missed: migraine, EDS/hypermobility, POTS/dysautonomia, vestibular disorders
12:53 What you’ll hear in the subjective history that suggests FND
15:13 Why “one test” (like Hoover) isn’t enough + signs vary by symptom type
16:54 Diagnostic criteria: what exists, what’s lacking, what needs improvement
19:12 Risk factors & triggers: sex differences, pain, sleep, physical injury/illness
21:01 Dizziness in FND: how common is it + vestibular system connection
21:59 Autonomic + sensory overlap (vestibular sympathetic reflex, otolith sensitivity)
24:44 Treatment approach: why there’s no one-size-fits-all protocol
25:38 Whole-person assessment + “pie chart” contributors + education foundation
29:00 Building trust, validation, and safety (especially after medical trauma)
31:18 Why play, fun, and salience matter for nervous system regulation + motor learning
32:45 Default mode network vs salience network explained simply
37:48 Social media + FND: what we think vs what research shows
41:26 Adapting vestibular rehab when FND is part of the picture
44:26 Safety + motor symptoms: when you prioritize regulation over exercise
48:18 Sensory inventory & building a regulation toolkit (OT-informed strategies)
51:00 Not everyone needs “calm”—some people need safe movement to regulate
52:18 “Mic drop” messages for people who feel stuck
55:21 Where to find Dr. Julie Hirschberg’s FND resources

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman sit down with Laura Ehlers to share a powerful, real-life story of chronic dizziness, plus the long road to obtaining answers in a healthcare system that often defaults to “it’s BPPV” or “it’s anxiety.”

Laura walks us through how her symptoms evolved after being hit in the head and what her life looks like living with dizziness. She also shares the layered diagnoses that often show up together in complex dizziness cases—vestibular migraine, PPPD (Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness), dysautonomia/POTS (Postural Tachycardia Syndrome), and hypermobility/EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), as well as the strategies that have helped her rebuild capacity.

You’ll hear practical advice on:

- How to advocate for yourself when you’re not being believed

- Why the right healthcare provider can be a game-changer

- Medication realities: from sensitivities to finding what works

Guest: Laura Ehlers
Instagram: @laurasnaturallife

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get free resources straight to your inbox⁠⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join The Dizzy Reset™ for FREE

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This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

01:11 Laura’s background: chronic migraine, holistic health, and early dizziness tools
02:37 Early warning signs: highway driving issues, tunnel vision, “is it anxiety?”
03:05 Vision therapy → severe spinning vertigo onset
04:33 Current symptoms: nonstop rocking/boat sensation + visual flow triggers
04:59 Life impact: driving intolerance, travel limits, parenting challenges
06:27 The advocacy problem: being believed, speaking the “right language”
07:52 Misconceptions in healthcare
09:47 Resources that helped: clinicians online + vestibular education on social media
10:42 Why primary care matters
11:09 Diagnoses explained
12:07 Layering issues: infections, mold gene, mast cell activity
13:06 Clinician perspective: frustration when patients get conflicting medical input
14:31 Hope vs acceptance: living in the chronic illness “seesaw”
15:59 Biggest mindset tool
17:35 “Early whispers” of symptoms
20:58 What helped most: rehab principles + sensory integration focus
21:20 Proprioception strategies: weighted inputs, holds, stomps, boots, blanket
23:15 Scaling exposure: “one sidewalk square at a time”
24:14 Breakthrough: walking on grass increased capacity
25:14 Histamine/mast cell stabilization: Zyrtec and sleep/sensory benefits
26:35 EDS/hypermobility: why screening matters in the “triad” conversation
28:40 Daily habits: caffeine consistency, electrolytes, potassium vs sodium insight
29:10 Nervous system work: somatic therapy + staying committed to movement
31:10 Mindset during flares: you’re not at square one; you’re stepping off the path
36:19 Encouragement for beginners: slow progress still adds up
37:45 Identity shift: grief + reinventing life (reading, painting, new interests)
39:06 Community: why 1:1 connections can beat unmoderated groups
41:30 Medication journey: fear, hesitancy, and why meds became a useful tool
44:55 Rescue meds (Ativan): pre-treating to participate in life moments
45:54 Micro-dosing approach: ultra-low starts + pharmacist check-ins
46:52 LDN + Zyrtec wins; sensitivity to other meds
48:40 Mic drop moments: what clinicians must understand + patient hope message

If you’re a physical therapist treating dizziness (or a patient trying to understand what’s going on), this episode is packed with practical, clinic-ready guidance. Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Dani Tolman, PT welcome Dr. Sara MacDowell, PT & Dr. Sydney Duhe, PT from Dizzy Diagnostics to break down real-world vestibular cases—including BPPV with lingering symptoms, acute vertigo after the ER (vestibular neuritis / hypofunction), and the common overlap of vestibular migraine (VM) + Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) with visual motion sensitivity.

You’ll learn how to think beyond textbook presentations, how to avoid missing multi-canal or bilateral BPPV, how to build patient buy-in with education, and how to dose and progress VOR/gaze stabilization and visual desensitization exercises for busy environments like grocery stores.

Episode Resources:

-Follow Dizzy Diagnostics on Instagram: @DizzyDiagnostics

-Advanced Neurotherapy Education (ANTE): advancedneurotherapyed.com⁠⁠

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Get free resources straight to your inbox⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠Join The Dizzy Reset⁠

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⁠

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host(s).

Timestamps
00:15 - Meet the guests: Sydney & Sarah (Dizzy Diagnostics) + their vestibular journeys
05:18 - Case 1: BPPV treated… but lingering dizziness/imbalance remains
06:39 - “First check: is BPPV truly resolved?” (all canals + short arm considerations)
07:36 - Fear avoidance + habituation: getting patients moving again safely
09:56 - Look beyond BPPV: hypofunction, migraine, cervicogenic contributors
12:45 - Multi-canal BPPV: why it’s tricky + how to prioritize treatment
14:36 - Treating multiple canals in one session
19:49 - Do you always schedule a follow-up after “straightforward” BPPV?
21:46 - Teaching self-treatment + “seeing is believing” re-check visits
24:08 - Case 2: ER “vertigo,” meclizine, lingering unsteadiness weeks later
25:35 - Full vestibular exam even with “negative imaging”
27:26 - What you expect in unilateral hypofunction: oculomotor, HIT/VHIT, balance, gait
29:14 - Treatment: education first, then VOR + balance + functional head movement
32:03 - Anxiety/fear avoidance: reframing dizziness as a “learning opportunity”
33:59 - Time-crunched HEP: “stacking” exercises into daily life
36:47 - VOR progression: dosing, symptom monitoring, advancing complexity
39:10 - The future of gaze stability: more specific dosing, unilateral work, wearables
42:37 - Case 3: Mid-30s postpartum, floaty dizziness + visual motion sensitivity (VM + PPPD/3PD)
44:03 - VM education: migraine features without head pain; hormonal shifts as triggers
45:28 - PPPD/3PD overlap + early prevention
51:49 - Treating visual motion sensitivity: patterns, videos, salience, real-world exposure
58:00 - Where to find Dizzy Diagnostics + resources

In this special episode of Talk Dizzy to Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Dani Tolman, PT sit down with two giants in the vestibular field: Jeff Walter, PT, DPT, NCS and Helena Esmonde, PT, DPT, NCS (Vestibular First).

Jeff tries to stump the group with vestibular questions covering:

-The history of John Epley and his contributions to the field

-Alexander’s law, Brun’s nystagmus, and the origin of the word nystagmus

-A precise definition of vertigo

-Advanced use of the bow and lean test for horizontal canal BPPV

-What happens when BPPV maneuvers go “wrong” (short arm, conversion, retesting)

-Practical use of the Rinne test, recruitment, and tuning forks in vestibular practice

-How to interpret CT scans that “show” superior canal dehiscence (SCD)

-A rare case of cough-induced nystagmus

-The reality that some dizzy patients don’t fit neatly into any diagnosis—and why that’s okay

Whether you’re a vestibular therapist, audiologist, ENT provider, or someone with dizziness hungry for answers, this episode is packed with clinical pearls, red flags, and pattern recognition tips for vertigo, BPPV, nystagmus, and beyond.

Episode Resources:

Jeff Walter, PT, DPT, NCS

-https://www.vestibular.today

-MedBridge Courses: https://www.medbridge.com/educate/instructors/jeff-walter-dpt-ncs

Helena Esmonde, PT, DPT, NCS

-https://vestibularfirst.com

-Journal Club:https://vestibularfirst.com/education/journal-club/

-Educational Resources/Handouts: https://vestibularfirst.com/education/resources/

-Vestibular First 's Journal Club- Clinical Pearls from an Unusual Case of Vertigo: https://youtu.be/ASjx5Yet1So?si=3qu5LkiD_pEDagHq

For more FREE resources, click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠.⁠⁠

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Get free resources straight to your inbox⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠Join The Dizzy Reset⁠

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Timestamps

00:00 – Intro

00:15 – Meet the Hosts & Guests

02:09 – Education Resources & Journal Club

03:08 – History Lesson: Dr. John Epley

06:21 – Alexander’s Law Explained

09:39 – Gustav Alexander’s Shocking Death

11:10 – Origin of the Term “Nystagmus”

13:31 – Brun’s Nystagmus & CPA Tumors

15:10 – Defining Vertigo (ICVD-Based)

18:22 – Bow & Lean Test: Angles, Mechanics & Clinical Pearls

23:24 – Short Arm / Anterior Arm BPPV & Tricks to Get Crystals Moving

27:34 – Retesting Posterior Canal BPPV: When You Re-Create the Problem

32:23 – Short Arm Debris & “Wimpy” Persistent Torsion

35:08 – Maneuver Names, Variations & Confusion in the Literature

38:53 – Tuning Forks in Vestibular & ENT Practice

45:19 – CT & Superior Canal Dehiscence: Might vs Definitely

49:22 – Cough-Induced Nystagmus

51:39 – Pattern Recognition, Edge Cases & Not Knowing Everything

56:15 – Reassuring Patients & “Doing the Next Right Thing”

Vestibular physical therapists Abbie Ross, PT, DPT, NCS, and Danielle Tolman, PT, DPT, sit down with Rob Landel, PT, DPT, FAPTA, to unpack cervicogenic dizziness (CGD) — what it is and isn’t, how to tell neck-driven dizziness apart from inner ear causes, and the clinical tools that actually make a difference.

They dive into the head–neck differentiation test, cervical joint position error (JPE) testing with a laser, and why CGD rarely causes vertigo or spinning. You’ll also hear how concussion, whiplash, BPPV, and migraine can overlap with neck-related dizziness — plus practical insights on manual traction, cervical strength and endurance training, “pain-first” strategies, and when a short-term collar might help (despite its bad reputation).

Episode Resources:

Website: https://skillworks.biz/

Email: rlandel@me.com

For more FREE resources, click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠.⁠⁠

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Us:

→ ⁠⁠⁠Book a free call with us⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Get free resources straight to your inbox⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠Join The Dizzy Reset⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Watch podcast episodes (and more) on YouTube ⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Follow us on TikTok⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Facebook⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Disclaimer⁠⁠⁠

→ ⁠⁠⁠Enjoying the podcast? Leave us a review!

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & show open

00:45 – Dr. Lindell’s background & early vestibular days

03:01 – How far vestibular rehab has come

03:58 – Defining CGD clinically

05:26 – Symptoms CGD

06:26 – CGD with vestibular or central issues; trauma link

07:25 – Secondary CGD from guarding & “moving in blocks”

08:31 – Is CGD over- or under-diagnosed?

12:11 – BPPV + trauma: when to probe the neck

14:10 – Migraine, vestibular migraine, cervicogenic headache—untangling overlap

16:26 – How neck input feeds spatial orientation

19:43 – Mismatch analogy: why CGD feels like seasickness

21:10 – History taking: get precise about “dizzy”

22:38 – Traumatic vs. atraumatic onset; red flags & neuro screen

26:28 – Exam flow once central/peripheral causes are ruled down

27:22 – Head–Neck Differentiation Test (separating head vs. neck motion)

30:17 – Cervical Relocation / Joint Position Error (JPE) Test with laser

33:27 – Testing extension: stabilizing neck vs. moving head in block

35:03 – Treatment blueprint: mobility, pain, motor control, strength/endurance

37:26 – Laser tracing progressions

38:20 – Timelines: why strength/endurance take the longest

46:18 – Why one therapist managing vestibular + MSK is ideal

49:18 – Evidence & experience with traction/manipulation for CGD

50:43 – “Heavy-headedness”

53:22 – Fatigue → increased sway; training normalizes it

54:48 – Wrap-up & future part 2 ideas

In this Talk Dizzy to Me episode, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Dani Tolman, PT sit down with Dr. Mike Studer, DPT, MHS, NCS, CEEAA, CWT, CSST, CSRP, CBFP, FAPTA to unpack neuroplasticity—what it is, how it works, and how to apply it in vestibular rehabilitation. We cover dual tasking, prediction error, fear-avoidant vs. fear-adapted movement, motivational interviewing, and patient-directed dosage using the OPTIMAL theory of motor learning. Mike shares practical clinic and real-life examples (driving, grocery stores, cooking), mic-drop lines you’ll quote to patients, and how to talk to insurers using objective measures.

If busy visuals or movement bother you, consider listening on Apple Podcasts/Spotify.

-Neuroplasticity = learning. It’s not just more pathways; it’s stronger, faster, better-fed pathways that consolidate during sleep.

-Dose the meaningful. Intensity, repetitions, salience, and task specificity drive consolidation (“put a post-it on that memory”).

-Exposure works. Habituation/adaptation creates prediction error (“that wasn’t as bad as I expected”), reinforcing change via dopamine.

-Fear shows up in movement. Beyond fear-avoidant behavior, watch for fear-adapted movement (reduced head turns, co-contraction, slow/over-intentional strategies).

-Dual tasking is two goals, not ‘think-and-move’ toward one goal. Use cognitive+motor or visual+motor loads that are personally salient.

-Autonomy accelerates progress. Let patients choose dosage (keep, dial down, or push), using motivational interviewing and OPTIMAL theory.

-No expiration date. Neuroplastic change remains possible well beyond 1 year—set expectations and use objective measures to justify care.

Episode Resources:

Email: mike@mikestuder.com

Website: mikestuder.com

Instagram: @MikeStuderDPT

Book: The Brain That Chooses Itself

For more FREE resources, click ⁠⁠⁠here⁠.⁠⁠

Hosted by:

🎤 Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS

🎤 Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT

For episode recommendations or requests, email us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠info@balancingactrehab.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Time Stamps:

03:29 Neuroplasticity defined

05:21 Core principles: intensity, repetitions, salience, task specificity, sleep consolidatio

09:35 Zooming into vestibular reha

10:06 VR as proof of neuroplasticity; predictive processing

11:32 Habituation/adaptation as exposure-based therapy; links to pain & psycholog

13:32 Fear, expectations, and patient education

14:28 Therapeutic alliance: precision starts with the person

17:42 Treating fear: exposure-response prevention & prediction error (dopamine wins)

20:05 Dosage variables + motivational interviewing + OPTIMAL theory

21:27 Threat perception, amygdala, and “roadblocking” fear pathways

24:13 Fear-avoidant vs. fear-adapted movement (new concept in progress)

26:11 Cognitive load, exhaustion, and dual-task intolerance

29:32 Building alliance between sessions (check-ins)

30:00 What dual tasking is (and isn’t): two separate goals

31:32 Clinic examples: cognitive+motor; visual+motor with busy backgrounds

34:51 Real life: driving with kids, grocery stores, cooking; task switching vs. dual tasking

38:40 Overtraining in clinic to empower life outside

39:10 Progression: patient-controlled dosage (autonomy)

43:27 Neuroplasticity at any age; caveats for degenerative conditions

45:26 “Road crew at night” metaphor; why sleep matters

47:13 The “1-year” myth; talking to insurers with objective measures

49:27 Mic-drop lines

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