BRENDAN MCCANN, MSPT, DIRECTOR

Brendan graduated Northeastern University in 2008 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Rehabilitation Science as well as a Master of Science Degree in Physical Therapy. He began his time with Island Sports Physical Therapy in Huntington in 2009, and quickly was promoted to Clinic Director, a role which he held for 13 years. In January 2022, Brendan opened Island Sports Physical Therapy in East Setauket to bring our PT model to the Three Village area. While Brendan enjoys the variety of treating all orthopedic and neurological conditions for patients of all ages, he has a special interest in treating the overhead athlete. Brendan lives in Port Jefferson Station with his wife and two children. Outside of the clinic, Brendan enjoys paddleboarding, hiking, spending time with his children, and homebrewing beer and cider.

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What Are Signs Of Vertigo?

Vertigo is a balance disorder symptom, which means you have trouble with stability, but can be improved by Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY. Since vertigo is a symptom, it is not strictly hereditary. However, it can be connected to a variety of conditions, some of which may be hereditary. Therefore, learning about your family health history might help identify the cause of your vertigo. If you suffer from vertigo, contact Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY.

The symptom of vertigo is commonly connected to the inner ear, which contains fluid and sensors inside the canal, which is responsible for the balance. If you develop an ear infection, it can cause problems with balance, but this does not necessarily mean that you have vertigo. There are more symptoms and experiences that comprise vertigo. 

If you are experiencing frequent vertigo spells, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible because it can potentially be linked to a serious health condition. For example, vertigo is associated with stroke, tumors, multiple sclerosis, and migraines. If you are concerned about vertigo, visit our Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY, or make an appointment online.

Signs and Symptoms

Vertigo, while in itself not a dangerous condition, can be scary to experience. A primary indicator that you are experiencing a vertigo spell is that it can feel like the room is spinning. If you are unsure about your symptoms, visit our Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY. 

Other symptoms of vertigo include:

• Ringing in the ears
• Dizziness
• Difficulty focusing with the eyes
• Nausea 
• Loss of hearing

While some of these symptoms may overlap with other conditions, it is critical to keep track of how many symptoms you are experiencing to confirm your condition. If you are experiencing some of these symptoms along with feeling the sensation that the room is spinning, you likely are experiencing vertigo.

Treatment

While vertigo is not life-threatening in and of itself, it can be dangerous, especially for older people. The symptoms of vertigo can increase the likelihood of a fall, which can be dangerous. Also, it can cause you to become disoriented with your surroundings which can be dangerous. If you are living with vertigo, you should always let someone know where you are going, and if possible, travel with someone else to help you in case your symptoms act up. 

This is why you should not wait to get treatment started. If you have vertigo, getting treatment can be life-changing. Vertigo spells should not take you by surprise and wipe out your day. By starting physical therapy, you can take back the power over vertigo and get stronger. In order to reduce the symptoms, it is critical to avoid making any quick movements because that can exacerbate the symptoms, especially dizziness, if you stand up too quickly. Sometimes using a walking assistant like a cane might be helpful with balance and provide a feeling of safety when you are out. Aside from managing the symptoms with lifestyle adjustments, balance therapy can help to improve your condition. We offer vestibular and balance training at our Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY. Vestibular and balance training can help with coordination and joint stability, with exercises in mind to help alleviate the frustrating symptoms of vertigo that are interrupting your life.

Make An Appointment: Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY

If you think that you have vertigo, visit our Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY, to get started on your treatment. The sooner you start, the sooner you can get back to doing what you love. Vertigo should not stop you from living or inhibit your quality of life. Visit our website to learn more about our vestibular and balance training therapy program.

Can Vertigo Be Affected By Weather?

Do you feel especially sick when a storm is coming? This is likely more than a coincidence. Seasonal vertigo is the term used for the painful symptoms that many feel with weather changes, especially during major storm seasons. Our experts in Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY can help relieve these vestibular symptoms. Island Sports Physical Therapy is here for you!

What Is Vertigo?

Vertigo is more of a symptom than a condition. It is usually experienced as a dizzy spinning sensation, making individuals feel like still objects or rooms are moving. This can be paired with nausea, vomiting, and balance issues.

Seasonal vertigo is a symptom of migraines. Migraines are a common cause of vertigo, and the changes brought by storms can induce severe migraines.

How Does Weather Cause Vertigo?

Being a symptom of migraines, storms can cause vertigo. Those who deal with migraines are often more sensitive to sensory inputs, and the barometric pressure changes that occur when a storm is coming can impact these individuals. The most severe weather seasons include spring storms, hurricane season, and tornado season.

The severity of the discomfort brought about by these storms can be immense, but many sufferers could assume that allergies or other causes are at play. The seasonal nature of this does not help. Individuals may experience symptoms for only a few weeks, so they do not seek out medical help or Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY at our East Setauket office. This leaves many undiagnosed and untreated.

Treating Seasonal Vertigo

Aside from resting and avoiding other migraine triggers, there are treatment options for those who experience vertigo. These include:

• Medication
  • Meclizine is an antihistamine that helps treat vertigo and motion sickness
• Essential oils
  • While not specifically meant for treating vertigo, lavender essential oil can help reduce nausea and dizziness
• Vestibular rehabilitation therapy
  • Guided by a professional in Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY, these exercises are meant to suit each patient after their examination at our East Setauket office. They may include:

• Balance training
• Gaze stabilization
• Habituation – reduces dizziness

Other Causes Of Vertigo

If you are experiencing vertigo, but it is happening throughout the year and without the presence of storms, it may be a symptom of something else. Seasonal vertigo from migraines is real, but experiencing vertigo while a storm is coming can also be a coincidence. Here are some other common causes of vertigo:

• Medications
• Head or neck injuries
• Infection of the vestibular nerve
• Neurological conditions – brain tumor, stroke, multiple sclerosis
• Meniere’s disease – causes the overproduction of fluid in the inner ear
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo – caused by a change in head movement

Regardless of the severity of your vertigo or what you might assume its cause is, seek medical attention immediately. It may be a symptom of a serious issue, so getting a proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible is key.

Island Sports Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY

If you are experiencing a dizzy sensation when storms are on the way, do not pass this off as a coincidence. You may be suffering from seasonal vertigo and may benefit from our Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY. Island Sports Physical Therapy , Vertigo Physical Therapy Near Port Jefferson Station NY, is dedicated to helping our patients find comfort and relief. Request an appointment today at our East Setauket office! 

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Vertigo

Vertigo is a symptom of a problem in the vestibular system, usually described as the sensation of spinning while stationary or moving in place. If you feel you are experiencing vertigo call Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY. The vestibular system is part of the sensory system that provides information about balance and spatial orientation.

The components of this system are located in three areas: (1) otolith organs (utricle and saccule), which are sensitive to linear acceleration; (2) semicircular canals, which are responsive to rotational or angular head movement; and (3) the cerebellum. A common form of vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). BPPV results from loose debris in one part of the inner ear that affects a person’s ability to detect gravity and motion. In BPPV, vertigo is triggered by changes in head position. Symptoms occur when the head moves into certain positions, such as rolling over in bed, bending backward or forward, turning from side to side while lying down, or tilting the head sharply.

Vertigo can be caused by problems other than BPPV, including Meniere disease; decreased blood flow to the brain; schizophrenia; multiple sclerosis (MS); migraines with neurological symptoms, in which vertigo is just one of many symptoms that may occur suddenly and last from hours to days or longer. Dizziness is often part of the migraine aura, which is like a warning sign that precedes an attack. Preventive measures for vertigo are avoiding known triggers; balancing activities; specific exercises; avoidance of medications that may trigger an episode, such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen); and taking medication prescribed by a doctor to control symptoms.

When it comes to simple everyday activities, whether walking or going up and down the stairs, having good balance is important. Balancing is a skill, and like any other skill, the more you practice the better you get. You can practice building strength and stability by working with our Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY at Island Sports Physical Therapy. 

Who is at Risk of Balance Problems?

Suppose you feel unsteady while standing or walking. In that case, you may have a balance problem. If you are on medication, have an infection, are experiencing an inner ear problem, or are recovering from a head injury, you are at risk of balance problems. You may also be at risk if you are 65 years or older and have arthritis or low or high blood pressure. Having an ear infection or travel ing on a boat may cause balance issues but usually goes away in time with treatment such as medications. Some balance problems though become long-term, chronic conditions. In these cases, it is good to start working with a physical therapist to improve your balance and get to the root of the problem.

How Can Physical Therapy Help

By performing physical therapy exercises to improve your balance, you can maintain your independence when it comes to walking, standing from a chair, or any other daily activities without risking a fall and getting injured. Our therapists at Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY are experts when it comes to movement. They will be able to help you improve your strength and mobility. Your doctor might recommend you start Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY if: 

• You are having difficulty moving independently and safely
• You have gotten hurt from falling or have a history of falling
• You have had a stroke causing you to have difficulty balancing 
• You are an athlete recovering from a sports injury 
• You have recently had surgery 
• You have vertigo 

When you first attend Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY, a therapist will likely assess your balance to see which movement, in particular, poses the greatest challenge. Then, they will help you create a routine to enhance your balance, safety, and independence. 

Balance Exercises at Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY

It is important to do these exercises with the help of a physical therapist. Some of these exercises may be too difficult to perform on your own. Having a physical therapist will ensure that you are performing balancing exercises safely and properly. Below are four simple balancing exercises a physical therapist can help you with to help improve your balance.

1. Single Leg Stance: A simple leg lift enhances balance by engaging your legs and abdomen muscles. It is important to have this skill because it helps 
2. with any movements that involve shifting weight from one leg to another, such as turning a corner or stopping yourself from falling. 
3. Tandem Walking: This exercise tests your balance and your body’s movement pattern while you are walking. By performing this exercise, you are strengthening your connection between your visual and proprioceptive systems. The ultimate goal in this exercise is to be able to walk without any spaces between each foot. 
4. Walking with Different Head Motions: This exercise strengthens your connection with all three balance systems. It trains these systems to react quickly when your focus abruptly changes. This is a very beneficial exercise for feeling stable and confident in a crowded environment or busy workplace. 
5. Walking with a Different Visual Field: This exercise strengthens your connection between the vestibular and proprioceptive systems. Practicing this will help you in cases where your surroundings are disorienting. 

Contact Us: Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY

At Island Sports Physical Therapy, our staff is committed to helping build strength and mobility by focusing on your specific goals and needs. Our Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY ensures that you are receiving treatment in a safe environment. If you want to improve your balance to prevent falls that can be life-threatening, schedule an appointment with us today!

The Dangers of Falling

For people aged 65 and older, a fall can be anything from a close call to the direct cause of a serious injury. You may think your motor skills are strong enough to minimize your fall risk on their own, but the facts show that over 3 million older people are treated in the emergency room for fall-related injuries. If you or a loved one is recovering from a fall and is seeking Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY, look no further than Island Sports Physical Therapy.

The statistics on the severity of falls indicate that they are more dangerous than you may think. One out of every four senior citizens fall each year, but only half tell their doctor, which can lead to the development of injuries. A major issue with falls is that each fall makes the next one more likely. In fact, each time you fall, it becomes twice as likely that you will fall again. Island Sports Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY can help you combat this.

As you get older, the chances of falling and the chances of sustaining a serious injury such as a broken bone increase drastically as a product of your body’s progressive decline. For people over 65, one out of every five falls results in either a head injury or a broken bone, and over 800,000 people worldwide are hospitalized as a result of a fall each year. Some of the most common injuries that people suffer as a result of falls are:

• Head Injuries (concussions)
• Fractures
• Wrist Injury (from trying to break a fall)
• Shoulder Dislocations
• Knee Damage
• Back Injuries (from either falling straight backward or twisting)

What Can Make Me More Likely to Fall?

Besides the wear and tear that come with growing older, several conditions can make you more susceptible to falls. Some of these conditions include:

• Low Vitamin D levels
• Lower Body Weakness
• Vision Problems
• Pain in the feet or lower body
• Hazards (clutter, uneven steps)
• Taking Certain Medication

How Can Fall Prevention Help?

It is no secret that taking proper fall prevention measures can mitigate the chances that you will suffer a fall. Some precautions that you can take to decrease your risk of falling is making your home safer by removing potential trip hazards and adding grip bars in areas you are at risk of falling such as a tub or flight of stairs. Additionally, you can learn exercises that can help increase your balance and overall strength.

Tai Chi, also known as “meditation in motion” can be a particularly effective form of physical activity that improves your balance. You should also have your eyes checked yearly to make sure your vision is strong enough and your depth perception is adequate. If you take many of these precautions, you can effectively decrease your risk of falling.

Seeking Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY?

Island Sports Physical Therapy has a tremendous track record for providing the best Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY. With six convenient locations across Long Island, Island Sports PT is your one-stop destination for all your physical therapy needs. Our dedicated team of professionals is fully committed to ensuring you are best equipped to avoid preventable falls and maintain your health and wellbeing. To schedule an appointment, follow this link! To learn more about some of the other aspects of our geriatric rehabilitation program, please visit our website!

What is Vertigo? 

Vertigo is a sensation of feeling off-balance. It causes dizziness and makes you feel like you’re spinning, even when you’re not. The condition causes several symptoms in those suffering and leaves people feeling unbalanced and out of control. Contact Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY if you are experiencing these symptoms. 

Vertigo is the sensation that the environment around you is spinning in circles, often making you feel dizzy and off-balance. There are two different main types of vertigo: peripheral vertigo and central vertigo. With peripheral vertigo, there is a problem with the inner ear. In central vertigo, there is an issue with the brain. Vertigo can happen to anyone but is most common in people over the age of 65. Women are more likely to experience vertigo than men are. Vertigo can last from a few seconds to several minutes, or sometimes longer. Many people compare vertigo to motion sickness, as it can make you feel like you are spinning or tilting. Those feelings of unbalance may worsen when you stand, walk, or change positions; so contact Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY.

Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY

With an individualized evaluation and assessment, Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY will design a treatment plan specific to your case. The exact treatment for your vertigo will depend on the cause. In physical therapy for vertigo, the main focus of the physical therapist is to help you get moving and manage vertigo at the same time. There are four common techniques used to treat and manage vertigo. 

The most common technique is the Epley maneuver, which is effective in treating mechanical ear imbalances. These include the loose crystals that cause BPPV. Another technique is the Semont maneuver, which involves moving the patient rapidly from lying on one side to the other. After the physical therapist determines which vestibular system is being affected by BBV, the procedure should be done and your dizziness and vertigo should be gone in a day or two. Another technique used in Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY is the Foster maneuver. The physical therapist might need to repeat this a few times for relief. Lastly is the Brandt-Daroff exercise. This series of movements are often used to treat BPPV. 

Advantages of Using Physical Therapy for Vertigo 

While there are some home remedies and exercises that you can do yourself to treat vertigo, the help of a trained physical therapist is going to be more helpful. They are able to assess your problem and try to identify the root cause of your vertigo, which then plays into the treatment plan for your specific case. Simply picking up one exercise randomly can potentially do more harm than good, so it is in your best interest to work with a trusted, well-trained physical therapist.  After the physical therapist assesses your specific symptoms, you will be suggested numerous therapeutic exercises designed for you. These exercises, specifically designed for your case of vertigo, can reduce the intensity of your symptoms and/or work to eliminate them completely. 

A physical therapist also periodically re-evaluates you and your case to check for improvement or changes that should be made. This helps to track your progress and utilize the most effective types of exercises. Additionally, Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY can help you with any questions that you may have. Opting for physical therapy to treat vertigo can be extremely beneficial and successful in improving your personal condition. 

Vertigo Physical Therapy near Port Jefferson Station NY

To treat your individual case of vertigo, Island Sports Physical Therapy offers the best care for each specific patient. With individualized care and the attention that you need to improve, our trained physical therapists work to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life living with vertigo. Contact us today to set up your own appointment!