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Chiropractic Management of Vertigo and Dizziness
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Chiropractic Management of Vertigo and Dizziness

Vertigo and dizziness can be disruptive and concerning symptoms for patients. Chiropractic care offers a potential avenue for managing these unpleasant sensations.

Etiology of Vertigo and Dizziness

Dizziness is a general term encompassing feelings of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. Vertigo, a specific type of dizziness, is characterized by a false sensation of movement, often described as spinning. Severe vertigo can be accompanied by headache, nausea, and vomiting, significantly impacting balance.

The prevalence of dizziness and vertigo is notable, with approximately 20% of the American population experiencing these symptoms at least occasionally, as indicated by a cohort study published in Laryngoscope Investigative Ophthalmology in 2023.

Contributing factors to vertigo and dizziness include:

  • Cervical Spine Dysfunction: Misalignments, or subluxations, within the cervical vertebrae can impinge on neural structures, potentially leading to dizziness and vertigo. These subluxations can arise from various mechanisms such as falls, repetitive strain, whiplash injuries, arthritis, and poor postural habits.
  • Inner Ear Disorders: Several inner ear pathologies, including vestibular neuritis, Meniere’s disease, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), can disrupt the vestibular system and result in balance disturbances, vertigo, and dizziness.
  • Neurological Conditions: Individuals with neurological disorders such as migraines, multiple sclerosis, or a history of stroke may be more susceptible to experiencing vertigo and dizziness. Post-concussive syndrome can also manifest with these symptoms following head trauma.
  • Other Factors: Dizziness and vertigo can also be associated with stress, hypotension, medication side effects, otitis media, dehydration, and atherosclerosis.

Snyder Family Chiropractic: Treatments for Vertigo and Dizziness

Chiropractic management of vertigo and dizziness is predicated on identifying and addressing the underlying musculoskeletal and neurological factors contributing to the patient’s symptoms. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual and may incorporate the following:

  • Spinal Adjustment: Sometimes referred to as an “manipulation,” spinal adjustments aims to restore proper biomechanical alignment to the vertebrae of the cervical and thoracic spine. This is achieved through the application of controlled, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts, either manually or with the aid of instruments. By correcting vertebral subluxations, nerve compression and associated symptoms may be alleviated.
  • Soft Tissue Therapy: While spinal adjustments address bony alignment, surrounding musculature and soft tissues may exhibit hypertonicity. Techniques such as massage, myofascial release, and soft tissue mobilization are employed to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and decrease pain. The combined effect of spinal manipulation and soft tissue therapies can reduce inflammation and enhance blood flow to the brain and inner ear, potentially improving balance and mitigating future episodes of dizziness and vertigo.
  • Epley Maneuver: For patients diagnosed with BPPV, Dr. Snyder may utilize the Epley maneuver. This specific sequence of head and body movements is designed to reposition otolithic crystals within the semicircular canals of the inner ear, thereby resolving the positional vertigo associated with this condition.
  • Therapeutic Exercise and Patient Education: Dr Snyder may prescribe exercises aimed at improving balance, proprioception, and the strength of cervical musculature. Enhanced neck strength and stability can contribute to better posture and a reduced likelihood of cervical subluxations.

Evidence Supporting Chiropractic Intervention

Several research studies and case reports suggest the potential benefits of chiropractic care in the management of vertigo and dizziness. A 2022 case report published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research documented the positive outcomes of chiropractic treatment in a 49-year-old female experiencing cervicogenic dizziness and neck pain following a fall. Chiropractic adjustments led to improvements in dizziness, pain levels, and cervical range of motion.

Furthermore, an analysis of National Health Survey data published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine in 2015 indicated that individuals with dizziness reported chiropractic care as helpful. The analysis revealed a high likelihood of patients perceiving benefit from chiropractic interventions for their dizziness.

In conclusion, chiropractic care presents a conservative and potentially effective approach for the management of vertigo and dizziness by addressing underlying musculoskeletal and neurological factors. Patients experiencing these symptoms may benefit from a consultation with Dr. Jeff Snyder to explore appropriate treatment options.  Call our office at 610-935-5900 to schedule an appointment!

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