Vertigo

What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning or moving when there is no actual movement. It is not a condition but rather a symptom of various underlying health problems, often related to issues in the inner ear or nervous system. Vertigo can significantly affect balance and everyday activities.

Common Symptoms

Although people often describe vertigo as dizziness, it is more specifically characterized by a false sense of spinning or motion. Symptoms may vary in severity and can be brief or prolonged.

• Spinning sensation (even when still)
• Imbalance or unsteadiness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
• Headaches or sweating

Common Types of Vertigo

Several types of vertigo can affect individuals, but the most commonly diagnosed include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Caused by changes in head position and is most common.
• Meniere’s Disease: Linked to fluid buildup and pressure changes in the inner ear, often causing tinnitus and hearing loss.
• Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: Caused by infection and inflammation of the inner ear.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing and treating certain causes of vertigo, especially those related to the nervous system or cervical spine. After an assessment, chiropractors may use specific techniques such as spinal adjustments, repositioning maneuvers (like the Epley maneuver for BPPV), and personalized rehabilitation exercises. These interventions aim to restore proper nervous system function and balance, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of vertigo episodes. For optimal outcomes, chiropractors often work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, especially when vertigo may be linked to a more serious underlying condition.