Show Notes
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: [email protected] 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
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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
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