Can a Chiropractor Help with Vertigo?

Can a chiropractor help with vertigo? The answer is often yes, particularly for specific types like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). Vertigo, characterized by a spinning sensation or dizziness, can disrupt your daily life, making simple tasks like standing or turning your head challenging. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, targeted approach to alleviate vertigo symptoms by addressing underlying causes, such as inner ear issues or spinal misalignments. 

What Is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often triggered by head movements or changes in position. It can stem from various causes, with the most common being Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), which accounts for roughly 20% of dizziness cases and up to 50% in individuals over 60. Other potential causes include:

• Inner ear conditions like vestibular neuronitis or labyrinthitis
• Head or neck injuries, including whiplash
• Viral infections
• Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis or minor strokes
• Rarely, tumors or medication side effects

In many cases, especially with idiopathic BPPV (where the cause is unknown), chiropractic care can effectively manage symptoms, particularly when related to inner ear or spinal issues.

Common Symptoms of Vertigo

Vertigo symptoms can vary in intensity but often include:

• Spinning Sensation: Feeling like you or your surroundings are moving.
• Balance Issues: Difficulty standing or walking steadily.
• Nausea or Vomiting: Often triggered by severe dizziness.
• Tinnitus: Ringing in the ears, especially with inner ear issues.
• Headache or Neck Pain: Sometimes linked to spinal misalignments.

These symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life, making prompt diagnosis and treatment critical.

How Chiropractors Diagnose Vertigo

Chiropractors begin with a comprehensive evaluation to identify the cause of your vertigo. This typically includes:

• Detailed Health History: Discussing your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or infections.
• Physical and Neurological Exam: Assessing balance, coordination, and nerve function.
• Dix-Hallpike Maneuver: A specialized test to confirm BPPV by observing eye movements during specific head positions, distinguishing between peripheral (inner ear) and central (brain-related) vertigo.

If a chiropractor suspects a more serious condition, such as a neurological issue or stroke, they’ll promptly refer you to a medical specialist for further evaluation.

Chiropractic Treatment for Vertigo

For vertigo caused by BPPV, chiropractors use proven repositioning techniques to relieve symptoms by guiding displaced calcium crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear back to their proper place. Common treatments include:

• Epley Maneuver: A series of head movements to reposition otoconia, often providing relief in 1–3 sessions.
• Semont Maneuver: Another repositioning technique for BPPV, effective for specific cases.
• Spinal Adjustments: Correcting cervical spine misalignments that may contribute to dizziness or balance issues.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation: Tailored exercises to improve balance and reduce recurrence.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Vertigo

Chiropractic treatment offers several advantages over traditional approaches like medication:

• Non-Invasive: No drugs or surgery, reducing risks and side effects.
• Targets the Cause: Addresses inner ear or spinal issues rather than masking symptoms.
• Fast Results: Many patients feel improvement after just one session.
• Holistic Approach: Enhances overall spinal health and nervous system function, supporting long-term balance.

Unlike medications such as prochlorperazine, which may cause drowsiness and only temporarily reduce symptoms, chiropractic care focuses on resolving the root issue for lasting relief.

What to Expect During Treatment

Your first chiropractic visit for vertigo will involve a thorough assessment, often lasting 30–45 minutes. If BPPV is confirmed, treatment may begin immediately with maneuvers like the Epley or Semont. Sessions are typically short, and most patients notice reduced dizziness within 1–3 visits. Your chiropractor may also recommend home exercises to support recovery and prevent recurrence. For non-BPPV vertigo, spinal adjustments or referrals to specialists may be part of the plan.

When to Seek Chiropractic Care

If you experience sudden or persistent dizziness, especially triggered by head movements, a chiropractor can help determine if it’s related to BPPV or spinal issues. Early intervention is key to preventing chronic symptoms or complications. If your dizziness is accompanied by severe symptoms like vision loss, speech difficulty, or weakness, seek medical attention immediately, as these could indicate a more serious condition.

Why Choose Chiropractic Over Other Options?

While medications can temporarily alleviate dizziness, they don’t address the underlying cause and may cause side effects like fatigue. Specialist referrals through traditional healthcare systems can involve long wait times, delaying relief. Chiropractors, trained in vestibular disorders, offer a faster, more direct path to recovery for many vertigo cases, particularly BPPV, with techniques that match those used by medical specialists.

Take Control of Your Vertigo Today

Don’t let vertigo disrupt your life. At Precise Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, our skilled team is ready to diagnose and treat your vertigo with personalized, effective care. Call us at (410) 370-0600 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment and regain your balance.