Finding Balance How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Can Alleviate Vertigo

By Dr. Drew Hall

Vertigo is a distressing condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing dizziness, disorientation, and a spinning sensation. While there are various causes of vertigo, one alternative treatment approach that has shown promising results is upper cervical chiropractic. This specialized branch of chiropractic care focuses on the alignment of the uppermost bones in the neck, known as the upper cervical spine. In this article, we will explore how upper cervical chiropractic can help individuals suffering from vertigo and provide insights into its potential benefits.

Understanding Vertigo
Vertigo is characterized by a false sense of movement, where individuals may experience spinning, swaying, or tilting sensations even when they are stationary. It often occurs due to problems in the inner ear, specifically the vestibular system, which is responsible for our sense of balance. Conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, and vestibular migraine can lead to recurring episodes of vertigo. While traditional medical approaches focus on managing symptoms through medications or physical therapy, many individuals are seeking alternative treatments like upper cervical chiropractic to address the underlying cause.

Causes of Vertigo
Vertigo is often caused by an inner ear problem. Some of the most common causes include:

BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) BPPV occurs when tiny calcium particles are dislodged from their normal location and collect in the inner ear. The inner ear sends signals to the brain about head and body movements relative to gravity. It helps you keep your balance. BPPV can occur for no known reason and may be associated with age.

Meniere’s disease. This is an inner ear disorder thought to be caused by a buildup of fluid and changing pressure in the ear. It can cause episodes of vertigo along with ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss.

Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis. This is an inner ear problem usually related to infection (usually viral). The infection causes inflammation in the inner ear around nerves that are important for helping the body sense balance.

Vertigo may also be associated with:
• Head or neck injury
• Brain problems such as stroke or tumor
• Certain medications that cause ear damage
• Migraine headaches

The Upper Cervical Chiropractic Approach
Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized branch of chiropractic care that emphasizes the correction of misalignments in the uppermost vertebrae of the neck, namely the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) bones. These two vertebrae play a crucial role in supporting the head’s weight and facilitating the proper functioning of the nervous system. Misalignments or subluxations in this area can disrupt the communication between the brain and body, leading to various health issues, including vertigo.

By employing gentle and precise adjustments, upper cervical chiropractors aim to restore proper alignment and alleviate pressure on the nervous system. These adjustments are tailored to the individual’s unique needs and involve no twisting or cracking of the neck. The goal is to facilitate the body’s self-healing capabilities and promote overall well-being.

Symptoms of Vertigo
People with vertigo typically describe it as feeling like they are:
• Spinning
• Tilting
• Swaying
• Unbalanced
• Pulled to one direction

Other symptoms that may accompany vertigo include:
• Feeling nauseated
• Vomiting
• Abnormal or jerking eye movements (nystagmus)
• Headache

Effectiveness in Managing Vertigo
Several studies have indicated the potential effectiveness of upper cervical chiropractic in managing vertigo symptoms. Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can affect the vestibular system’s function, leading to vertigo. By realigning the vertebrae, upper cervical chiropractic may alleviate the pressure on the nerves and provide relief.

One case study published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research reported a significant improvement in a patient suffering from chronic vertigo following upper cervical chiropractic care. The study highlighted the restoration of the normal function of the vestibular system after specific upper cervical adjustments.

Another study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics examined the impact of chiropractic care, including upper cervical adjustments, on patients with chronic recurrent vertigo. The results showed a reduction in both the frequency and severity of vertigo episodes, suggesting the potential benefits of this treatment approach.

It is important to note that upper cervical chiropractic is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and individual responses may vary. A thorough examination and evaluation by a qualified upper cervical chiropractor are necessary to determine the suitability of this approach for each patient.

Sarasota Upper Cervical Chiropractic

941.259.1891
sarasotauppercervical.com