ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA — Minnesota clinics are reporting a surge in patients seeking treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance, conditions increasingly linked to aging, chronic disease, and lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Specialized Clinics Expanding
In response to the growing need, Twin Cities clinics are investing in new specialists and diagnostic technology. At Associated Hearing Care in St. Paul, dizziness evaluations now account for 10% of its business across 10 locations, following the installation of a rotational diagnostic chair.
Rebecca Younk, the group’s chief audiologist, explained, “By the time they get to us, they’ve been dizzy for a long time, or they’ll have episodes where they’re dizzy and then it gets better and then they get dizzy again. For some people, it can be debilitating.”
Why Vertigo Cases Are Rising
Dizziness can be caused by drug interactions, cardiovascular issues, or chronic illnesses such as diabetes. However, many cases are tied to dysfunction in the inner ear’s vestibular system, which plays a crucial role in balance.
Experts say Minnesota’s aging population is a factor, with nearly 1 in 5 residents now senior citizens. Physical therapist Kristine Feriancek also pointed to post-COVID complications, noting that some patients experience persistent dizziness, while others struggle after resuming pre-pandemic activity levels.
The Broader Impact
Clinicians emphasize that while dizziness is not new — ranking as the third-most common complaint among patients — the recent uptick highlights the need for increased awareness and specialized care. Left untreated, frequent dizziness can lead to falls, injuries, and reduced independence among older adults.
Looking Ahead
As demand grows, more clinics are expected to invest in vestibular rehabilitation and balance-focused treatments. For patients, early evaluation remains key to identifying underlying causes and improving quality of life…