Vertigo is the medical term for the feeling that everything is spinning around a person. While this word is often mistakenly applied to the sensation people get when they are afraid of heights, it is usually actually caused by movement of the head. This very common form of vertigo is referred to as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (or BPPV for short).
Because vertigo often becomes an issue after head trauma, this helps us to appreciate what really causes the spinning sensation. For example, many head injuries, whether a concussion occurs or not, lead to upper cervical misalignments. How does a problem with the upper neck relate to vertigo?
The position of the C1 and C2 can have a big impact on messages being sent between the brain and the body. A misalignment can put pressure on the brainstem and interrupt proper signals between the brain and the vestibulocochlear nerve (which is responsible for letting the brain know where the body is in relation to surroundings).
It now becomes clear why vertigo frequently follows a head injury. The head injury results in a neck injury, and the neck injury leads to vertigo. With the underlying cause in mind, it is easier to seek treatment. At Balanced Living Chiropractic, we use the NUCCA technique to provide relief.
Using the NUCCA method, we work to identify and correct upper neck misalignments for our patients. As a result, the central nervous system can send the proper signals again. For many, the result is fewer or less severe cases of vertigo, and some even see a complete resolution of the issue.
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.
