I first experienced episodes of vertigo or BBPV around 7 years ago. Prior to that, I had never experienced balance-related issues and loved martial arts, mountain biking and riding a motorbike. I had a couple of pretty debilitating vertigo attacks and experience daily dizziness and unsteadiness. Places like supermarkets or busy environments were a nightmare due to increased visual stimulation. Most mornings I would wake up hoping that a dizziness ‘off switch’ had kicked in but minutes after getting up, I would be back to knowing it had not. As time went on it continued to knock my confidence, to the point I would have to be near something to lean on whilst talking to people, in case I was to lose my balance.

My only solution was repeat trips to the doctors. The initial diagnosis was BBPV, but Epley manoeuvres did not help. I spent 6–12 months having various tests and ENT appointments and then MRI scan was clear, I received a diagnosis of vestibular migraines. 

During COVID time, my world became smaller. I stopped training and predominantly worked from home. The only way to manage my symptoms was to do less and so, I would rest as much as possible. My main motivator was the birth of our son, this gave me the push to go back to the doctors and try to get some more answers. Not feeling confident to walk up and down stairs holding my baby was really tough.

I finally got an ENT diagnosis of PPPD in 2023. I did not quite know what to think really, I had not even heard of PPPD before.

Due to all the inactivity and work-related screen time I developed neck pain. That is when I went to see Claire. The neck was sorted in no time and I talked to Claire regarding the vestibular issues I had been facing. Finally things made perfect sense and better still, there was a road to recovery. Claire explained everything about the condition and what we could work on to address it. I was given defined vestibular exercises which initially I was unable to do, but later I would find no trigger by them. I was also given subtle but vital lifestyle change recommendations that have made a huge difference.

It has been great to go back to appointments with positivity about my progress and the last couple have included highlights with me going back to riding a motorbike, attending work related events and being able to carry our new daughter up and down the stairs without even thinking about it.

Looking back, I am absolutely amazed at the difference compared to the last few years. I cannot thank Claire enough for her expertise, empathy and the priceless knock on effects it has had to myself and family. Thank you Claire.