vertigo and dizziness

Hi all, I'm new to the forum. I just started back to Aikido: I did it for about three years, 10 years ago and haven't done any meaningful practice since.

When I was training 10 years ago I had no troubles at all with ukemi, break falls, or anything. But now when I roll a bit too much, I get dizzy and nauseated. It also happens when I bend backward (in the partner breathing exercise - I can't remember the name), and especially when I am uke for irimi nage. I usualy have to stop and sit down for a while.

I have a feeling it is some kind of inner ear problem. Has anyone had the same, and can you suggest any remedies? I don't want to have to quit after finding Aikido again after so long!

Thanks!

Dear Johnathon,

I am not a doctor, just a brown belt but have experienced the same thing that you're talking about. I spent many training hours trying to figure out the dizziness, vertigo, etc and what really worked for me was getting my electrolytes in balance. I drank more water and NATURAL electrolyte drinks before class, and tried to concentrate on my breathing. My Sensei would often tell me to "Breathe!" and I tried to get a rhythm to my breathing. that really helped! Hope it works for you!

The older you get the more you need to take time to habituate yourself to vestibular stimulation. It takes patience and time and consistent training, like at least twice a week. And I agree, being well hydrated is a must.

Jeanne

I was worried that it was a "you're getting older" thing! At least it is just about my only symptom, so far.

I'm intending to train at least twice a week. I'll just persevere and sit out when it gets too bad. If you're right, I may be able to work through this.

Thanks for your help!

Hi,
Does this happen to you outside of Aikido practice? Try going on a "merry-go-round" and see if it has the same effect. Do you get dizzy when changing position, like lying down to standing?
If this does happen, you might (I'm no doctor either) have something like BPPV (benign Positional .... vertigo). If it doesn't go away, or gets worse, go to an ear doctor, there is a quite simple steps of position movements that he can do and what it does, is place the small crystal- like parts we have in our ear, back into place.
I'm not saying this is what you have, but if it gets worse, I'd go check it out.
Apart from that- Welcome back to Aikido!
Anat

Hi

I know of people who have vertigo from multiple reasons, from tense muscles in the neck to neurological problems in the inner ear and even some viral syndrome that damages the inner ear. All of these can cause Vertigo even without Aikido practice or rolls.

If your vertigo only happens when you are practicing your rolls, doing more then you used to, it is likely some practice will make it pass, Just go slowly with it. Otherwise, you should consult some doctors.

Amir

Firstly, I don't think you need to panic

Second - it could well be that you are getting older (hang on - we all are)

Third - I see this quite regularly, with people returning to aikido. (even after a short time away - even a matter of weeks) and with a little time, will go away

Fourth - ignore 1,2 & 3 and check it out with a doctor. Early diagnosis of any physical limitation is a real wise thing to do.
Don't 'tough' it out and then put the responsibility on the sensei.

PS , thats what I'd be telling a student of mine. I've seen it all before (yes, I'm an instructor) and tend to be conservative. But your well being is what is of importance here.