Vertigo refers to a sensation of either movement when there is none or inaccurately sensed movement. Often patients associate vertigo with the feeling of spinning. In particular, if vertigo begins when the head moves into certain positions, this is called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (often just shortened to positional vertigo).
Vertigo can occur for a number of different reasons. Sometimes the underlying cause may spring from the ear. For example, when someone has an ear infection, vertigo is common. At other times, the genesis of vertigo is the central nervous system, particularly the vestibular system which is responsible for balance and orientation in space.
The brainstem is home to various nuclei that play a key role in determining balance. Because of this, anything that affects brainstem activity may also affect balance or equilibrium and result in vertigo. What can inhibit brainstem activity?
The atlas (C1) protects the brainstem right where it meets the spinal cord. As a result, a misalignment can place pressure on the brainstem and potentially cause vertigo. In fact, whiplash injuries have been linked to misalignments that result in a lesion on the Eustachian tube. This can lead to a rare vestibular condition known as Meniere’s disease. One of the primary symptoms is vertigo.
Upper cervical chiropractic focuses on finding and correcting atlas misalignments. At Balanced Living, we use the NUCCA technique in order to specifically identify these subluxations and correct them as gently as possible. As a result, adjustments are long-lasting and give the body more time to heal from the damage caused by the misalignment.
Numerous case studies reveal that patients with vertigo, especially those with a history of head or neck trauma, respond well to upper cervical chiropractic care. In fact, vertigo has completely resolved for many.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Joe Perin, call our Vancouver office at 360-569-1740. You can also click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
