Orthostatic Dysregulation: When Standing Up Causes Symptoms

Orthostatic dysregulation (OD) occurs when the body fails to regulate blood pressure properly on standing. It causes dizziness, nausea, fainting, and chronic fatigue, especially in adolescents.

At AlterPhysio Amsterdam, we treat orthostatic dysregulation with physiotherapy and acupuncture. In addition, we address the autonomic nervous system dysfunction at the root of the condition.

Understanding Orthostatic Dysregulation

What Happens in the Body

In addition, Normally, standing triggers an automatic increase in heart rate and vascular tone. In OD, this reflex fails and blood pools in the lower body.

Moreover, the resulting drop in cerebral blood flow causes the characteristic symptoms. These range from brief lightheadedness to complete fainting (syncope).

Who is Affected

OD is most common in teenagers, particularly during growth spurts. It is also seen in adults after prolonged bed rest, illness, or under high stress.

Furthermore, OD often occurs alongside conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and POTS. A thorough assessment is essential to identify the specific type and triggers.

Acupuncture for Orthostatic Dysregulation

Regulating the Autonomic Nervous System

Acupuncture directly influences the autonomic nervous system that controls vascular tone. It helps restore the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity.

Therefore, the abnormal blood pressure response on standing normalises over a course of treatment. Most patients see meaningful improvement within four to eight sessions.

Improving Circulation and Energy

Furthermore, Acupuncture improves peripheral circulation and helps the body redistribute blood efficiently. This reduces the pooling effect that causes OD symptoms.

Additionally, it addresses the chronic fatigue that accompanies OD. Improved energy allows gradual return to normal activity levels.

Physiotherapy and Exercise Rehabilitation

Graduated Exercise Programme

Graded exercise, starting in lying and progressing to upright, reconditions the cardiovascular system. We design safe programmes that avoid triggering symptoms during recovery.

Beyond this, strengthening the calf and thigh muscles improves venous return. This reduces blood pooling in the legs when standing.

Breathing and Posture Training

Diaphragmatic breathing improves autonomic regulation and venous return. We teach breathing techniques that patients can use during symptom onset.

Notably, posture correction reduces the cardiovascular demand of upright positions. This provides immediate symptomatic relief for many patients.

Book Your Orthostatic Dysregulation Treatment in Amsterdam

Equally important, OD is often misunderstood and undertreated, but it does respond well to the right care. Our AlterPhysio Amsterdam team offers specialised, compassionate treatment.

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Written by Hidekazu Kuwabara, Registered Physiotherapist (BIG-registered, Amsterdam)

Hidekazu has over 10 years of clinical experience in physiotherapy and acupuncture. He specialises in musculoskeletal pain, sports injuries, and integrative East-West medicine at Alter Physio & Acupuncture, Amsterdam.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or treatment.