Vertigo—Understanding the Role of the Neck

Vertigo is a vestibular problem that causes a false sensation of movement. Often, this is related to a malfunction of the inner ear. One common manifestation of this false sensation of movement is the feeling that the room is spinning.

As a child, you may have induced vertigo for fun by spinning as fast as you could. As an adult, however, many experience this sensation involuntarily. In fact, some may experience vertigo doing something as simple as getting out of bed. What role does the neck play in vertigo occurrence?

Upper Cervical Alignment and Vertigo

Walnut Creek Chiropractors warn that if one is not careful, the upper bones of the spine can become misaligned. These bones have the responsibility of keeping the head held straight. The righting reflex is the body’s defense mechanism that kicks in when the head begins to tilt. In order to keep the eyes level with the horizon, soft tissue will shift, and additional vertebral misalignments may occur. Blood flow to the brain may even be affected. The atlas, top bone in the spine, protects the brainstem. As a result, even a slight misalignment here can put pressure on the brainstem and throw off communication throughout the body.

To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and vertigo download our complimentary e-book by clicking the image below.

Reducing Vertigo at Its Source

Once such a misalignment is discovered, it can be corrected with a gentle adjustment. Doing so gives the body the opportunity to heal the soft tissue that had shifted. Pressure may be relieved from the brainstem. Proper vertebral blood flow may also be restored.

At Advance Upper Cervical Chiropractic, we specialize in detecting and correcting this specific type of misalignment. Once corrected, many find that vertigo symptoms are dramatically improved. In fact, in case studies, vertigo is often completely relieved by realignment of the atlas.

If you suffer from vertigo, especially if you have a history of head or neck trauma, schedule a consultation today to learn more about what upper cervical chiropractic can do for you.