What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a type of dizziness or a feeling of spinning sensation. It is a common condition affecting millions of people around the world.
The feeling of vertigo can range from mild to severe, and can last from a few seconds to several minutes. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, and ringing in the ears.
Vertigo can be caused by various medical conditions, including inner ear disorders, head or neck trauma, or even migraines.
It is important to be aware of the causes, symptoms, and treatments for vertigo, as it can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.
Causes of Vertigo
There are many potential causes of vertigo. One of the most common causes is an inner ear disorder called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
This type of vertigo is caused by the displacement of tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear, which can cause the brain to perceive the sensation of spinning.
Other causes of vertigo include head or neck injuries, migraines, and certain types of medication. Vertigo can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, and Meniere’s disease.
In some cases, the cause of vertigo is unknown.
Symptoms of Vertigo
The most common symptom of vertigo is a sensation of spinning or whirling.
Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, sweating, and ringing in the ears.
Some people also experience lightheadedness, headaches, or hearing problems.
Treatment Options for Vertigo
The treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, vertigo can be treated with medications, such as antihistamines, anticholinergics, and antiemetics.
In some cases, physical therapy or vestibular rehabilitation may be recommended. Surgery may be necessary in some cases, such as to repair a damaged inner ear.
Chiropractic Treatment for Vertigo
Chiropractic is a form of ‘hands-on’ healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. It is based on the belief that misaligned vertebrae can cause discomfort, pain, and other health problems.
The treatment for this condition involves employing specific repositioning manoeuvres.
The chiropractor will guide you into particular positions based on the assessment findings, utilising gravity to relocate calcium carbonate crystals to a region within the inner ear where they won’t trigger additional symptoms.
Acupuncture for Vertigo
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical therapy that involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. It is believed to help balance the body’s energy, or qi, which can help relieve pain and other symptoms.
According to a study published in the BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, “Acupuncture demonstrates a significant immediate effect in reducing discomforts and VAS of both dizziness and vertigo. This study provides clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture to treat dizziness and vertigo in the emergency department”.
Massage for Vertigo
Massage is a form of manual therapy that involves applying pressure to the muscles and soft tissues of the body. It is believed to reduce stress, improve circulation, and reduce pain.
Cases of cervical vertigo may be helped by massage, or a combination of massage with acupuncture.
Cervical vertigo may be caused by a number of different issues, including head or neck arthritis, neck trauma, Meniere’s disease, inner ear disorders, and surgery to the neck, among others.
Upper Cervical Treatment for Vertigo
Upper cervical treatment is a type of chiropractic approach that focuses on the alignment of the vertebrae in the neck. It is believed that misaligned vertebrae can lead to pain and other symptoms, including vertigo.
Upper cervical treatment works by correcting injuries to the upper cervical spine (upper neck), which may be the cause of cervicogenic vertigo symptoms.
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Treatment for Vertigo
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) is a disorder of the jaw joint. It can lead to pain, popping, clicking, and other symptoms. It is believed that TMJ may also cause vertigo, or symptoms similar to vertigo.