Vestibular migraine causing problems with exercising
Hi all, every time I try to exercise at the moment it is triggering an attack. I just wondered if anyone had ever had the same issue and if anyone has had any luck finding a type of exercise that doesn't cause too much disruption? I know it's not one size fits all but any input on this would be gratefully received.
I don't have vestibular migraine, but I have experienced vertigo and have a disability that affects my ability to exercise. It's hard enough to do "regular" things and take care of yourself at home while the world is spinning, so I give you credit for continuing to try and exercise.
While we wait to see what others have to say, my suggestion would be to have a few conversations:
1) Chat with your doctor to see if they have any particular suggestions or things you should avoid.
2) Is vestibular rehab a possibility for you? This is physical therapy that is focused on managing your symptoms and adapting to your daily routine with symptoms, so I believe they would be able to give you the best recommendations based on your needs, in a safe environment.
3) Assuming it's okay with your care team, maybe you could work with a personal trainer once you get a better sense of your triggers. Trainers are there to help you craft a customized routine and to make sure you have the right form to prevent injury.
What do you think? Please keep us posted on how you're doing and what does/doesn't work for you -- it's a big help to others who might be reading along. Good luck! -Melissa, team memberthanks for the reply. In the UK we don't really get things like a care team. Also, as my diagnosis was late on in my illness journey there's not much that will change things and vestibular (physio) rehabilitation isn't offered. I will ask next time I go to my doctor's though and thanks for your message. It is encouraging hearing from others.
Hi - I really sympathise as exercise is so important for wellbeing etc. I too have vestibular migraines but luckily I am a lifelong horse rider and the moment I get in the saddle my symptoms just disappear!! I’m absolutely fine on horseback and then when my feet hit the ground again symptoms return - strange but true.
So if riding is not an option (although it’s never too late to learn) maybe try an electric bike? They are amazingly good also. You can control the effort you are comfortable with and the bike does the rest. Also you can ride in the countryside off road and get all benefits of nature too.
Hope that helps - good luck. XHi! I've struggled with vestibular migraines episodically (one episode lasted 6 months) and I like to exercise... what I love most, swimming and yoga, are not really possible due to the up-down movements. So... when I am in a vestibular flair I am able to walk, ride a stationary bike, and do strength training as long as my head is level and on a steady plane. No downward movements or twists. Nothing on the floor where I'm laying flat. Definitely don't give up on exercise since it's so helpful with stress relief, and remember a little goes a long way. Even 10 minutes is better than nothing.
