Understanding the Connection Between Chiropractic Care and Vertigo

Vertigo treatment provided by primary care doctors depends on what is causing vertigo. Chiropractic treatment for vertigo applies evidence-based chiropractic techniques that address the core reason for vertigo--cervical vertebral subluxation--and does not include prescription medications or surgery.

Symptoms of Vertigo

Vertigo describes a constellation of symptoms involving your sense of balance and orientation with your immediate environment. Episodes of vertigo happen unexpectedly. You could be standing, sitting, or lying down when it suddenly feels like the room is spinning around you, or you are spinning around and the environment seems to be, for the most part, stable. Some people experiencing vertigo may also become nauseous, anxious, and disoriented during a vertigo episode.

Causes of Vertigo

While occasional, age-related dizziness or imbalance can be expected in people over 60, recurring episodes of severe dizziness affecting anyone at any age are uncommon. Vertigo causes include:

• Vestibular neuritis
• Displacement of crystals normally found in the inner ear that irritate hair cells in the ear's semicircular canals (known as BPPV, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo)
• Cervical vertebral subluxation/cervicogenic dizziness--misalignment of the seven uppermost spinal vertebrae can restrict blood supply to the middle and inner ear
• Meniere's disease
• Head trauma
• Tumors (rare)

Episodic Rotational Vertigo and Meniere's Disease

Vertigo attributed to Meniere's may last 30 minutes or several hours and can be disabling. The vestibulocochlear nerve reaches into the upper neck where it can be compressed and irritated by misaligned vertebrae. Chiropractic for vertigo can realign vertebrae and remove pressure from the vestibulocochlear nerve to relieve symptoms of vertigo.

Chiropractic Treatment for Vertigo at Larson Chiropractic

Upper Cervical Adjustment

Chiropractic adjustments significantly improve blood flow and normal nerve signaling to your inner ear by realigning the upper spine into the correct position. Restoring normal communication among nerves in the brain, ear, and spine eases symptoms of subjective and objective vertigo as well as symptoms of Meniere's disease.

Epley Maneuver

Vertigo can be caused by the displacement of calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear. By moving you into specific positions that trigger gravity forces in the ear, Dr. Larson is able to reposition crystals in an area of the inner ear to prevent spinning sensations and dizziness.

Vestibular Exercises

After assessing the cause of your vertigo, Dr. Larson may have you perform vestibular rehabilitation exercises to relieve motion dizziness and improve balance. Some of these exercises include neck motion, strengthening, and balance-retraining exercises. 

What Can I Expect During Treatment?

You will never experience pain or discomfort during chiropractic care for vertigo at Larson Chiropractic. If you have concerns about vertigo treatment, Dr. Larson will be more than happy to discuss them with you.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Some people do well by having chiropractic treatments for vertigo every few months or whenever symptoms reappear. Others may need one or two treatments to eliminate symptoms for a year or more.

Are There Any Side Effects of Chiropractic Care for Vertigo?

The only side effect of chiropractic treatment for vertigo is that you will feel much better! In fact, many people seeking help for vertigo symptoms find that chiropractic medicine is so beneficial to their overall health that they continue visiting Dr. Larson even after their symptoms subside.

How Much Does Chiropractic for Vertigo Cost?

The cost of your treatment depends on how many times you visit our office, the length of your visits, and if you needed other procedures prior to your visit. We always tell our patients the exact amount of treatment costs and do not include any hidden fees.

Does Health Insurance Cover a Chiropractor in Lincoln?

Most health insurance plans will cover most or all the costs of chiropractic treatment. You can find information about how your health insurance addresses chiropractic care expenses by reading your premium's description of co-pays and deductibles.

Call Larson Chiropractic to Schedule an Appointment for Vertigo Treatment

Vertigo not only reduces your quality of life but can cause you to fall and suffer life-threatening injuries. Contact Larson Chiropractic today at 402-421-1626 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Larson.