ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Andy Beltz is a highly experienced physical therapist and vestibular rehabilitation specialist based in Canton, Ohio—home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. With over 26 years of clinical practice at Aultman Tusc Therapy, where he also serves as Assistant Manager, Andy has treated more than 20,000 patients struggling with dizziness, balance disorders, and post-concussion symptoms.
He is a nationally recognized expert in BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) , vestibular migraines, and PPPD (persistent postural-perceptual dizziness) . Andy is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Mount Union, a clinical instructor for over 30 PT students, and has taught more than 60 continuing education courses on vestibular rehabilitation to healthcare providers nationwide. His mission is to help patients find the root cause of their dizziness and regain control of their lives.
In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis (neurological OT and certified life coach) and Andy Beltz had a deep-dive conversation into one of the most common and distressing symptoms after concussion: dizziness.
Andy breaks down the science behind post-concussion dizziness in an easy-to-understand way, covering:
Why “dizzy” means different things to different people – and why triggers and timing matter more than the description.
The 3 major vestibular syndromes after head injury: acute, triggered episodic, and spontaneous episodic.
BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) – the most common cause of dizziness after concussion, caused by loose calcium crystals in the inner ear.
Vestibular migraines – how they can cause spinning episodes even without a headache.
PPPD (persistent postural-perceptual dizziness) – the “vicious cycle” where the brain becomes overly reliant on vision and neck input, leading to chronic imbalance and anxiety.
Why nervous system health and sleep are critical for recovery—and why “trying softer” is often more effective than pushing harder.
The role of vestibular therapy, Tai Chi, and nervous system training in treating dizziness, not just medication.
Whether you're a concussion patient, a caregiver, or a healthcare provider, this episode offers hope, clarity, and actionable insights for managing dizziness after head injury.
Resources Mentioned
Andy’s Blog (Fight Dizziness): fightdizziness.blogspot.com
YouTube Channel (The Dizzy Busy PT): youtube.com/@thedizzybusypt
LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/andy-beltz-spinnomore
Clinic Contact (Aultman Tusc Therapy): 330-363-6215
Work Email: andy.beltz@altman.com
Connect with Bethany:
Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/
Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website
Free Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation
