Grounded | The Vestibular Podcast

147. Scaling & Pacing Physical Activity with a Vestibular Disorder


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If you’ve ever tried to do too much, crashed hard, and then felt like you were back at square one—this episode is for you. I’m talking about two of the most important concepts we teach in Vestibular Group Fit: scaling and pacing.

It cannot be stressed enough how important this is and how much we talk about it in VGF.

Scaling and pacing aren’t about doing less forever. They’re about building capacity strategically so you can eventually do MORE without paying for it for days afterward.

I’m walking you through real-life examples of how to scale movement, exercise routines, walking, driving, and other daily activities — plus what to do on higher symptom days and post-attack so you can recover faster and get back to living your life.

In this episode, we’ll dig into:

  • What scaling and pacing actually mean and how they’re different
  • Why you should never increase more than 10% at a time
  • How to scale things like strength training, walking, and driving
  • The difference between “immediate” responders and “hangover” responders
  • Real-life pacing strategies you can add into your day-to-day life
  • How to scale down on post-attack or high symptom days
  • The 30-day to 30-minute return to walk program results from VGF
  • Summer consistency challenge details for Vestibular Group Fit members
  • Whether it’s exercise, grocery shopping, driving, or attending your nephew’s graduation—the same principles apply. Scaling and pacing are skills. As with any skill, it takes time, practice, and a whole lot of grace and patience with yourself.

    Links Mentioned:

    • Vestibular Group Fit (code GROUNDED at checkout for 15% off!): https://thevertigodoctor.com/vestibular-group-fit
      • Inside VGF, we have two helpful lessons: Visualization exercises for return to driving, and a 30-day to 30-minute return to walk program
      • Free Resources:

        • ⁠The 4 Steps to Managing Vestibular Migraine: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/cb5js0y78n
        • ⁠The PPPD Management Masterclass⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/new-pppd
        • ⁠What your Partner Should Know About Living with Dizziness⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/partnership
        • ⁠The FREE Mini VGFit Workout⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/minifit
        • ⁠The FREE POTS – safe Workouts⁠: https://thevertigodoctor.myflodesk.com/pots
        • Connect with Dr. Madison (@TheVertigoDoctor): https://instagram.com/thevertigodoctor

          Work with Dr. Madison:

          • For 1:1 Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy, email [email protected]
          • Otherwise, I’ll see ya in Vestibular Group Fit!
          • Connect with Dr. Jenna (@dizzy.rehab.therapist): https://www.instagram.com/dizzy.rehab.therapist/

            Learn about the Oak Method: http://thevertigodoctor.com/why-vestibular-group-fit

            Love what you heard?
            Consider leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more vestibular warriors like you!

            This podcast is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.

            physical activity intensity, scaling and pacing, activity pacing, scaling physical activity, vestibular disorder management, chronic dizziness, living with vestibular disorder, migraine attacks, nervous system regulation, exercises to improve balance, return to walking, driving with vestibular disorder, vestibular exercises

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            Grounded | The Vestibular PodcastBy Dr. Madison Oak, PT, DPT

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