Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common type of vertigo, characterized by a false sensation of movement. While the word “benign” suggests that the condition is not life-threatening, severe BPPV episodes can lead to falls—a serious risk for both older adults and younger individuals if an episode occurs at an inopportune time.
Understanding BPPV, the factors contributing to it, and how structural alignment may play a role can help guide long-term care.
Revised Guidelines for Vertigo Care
Historically, treatment recommendations for BPPV included:
- Antihistamines
- Benzodiazepines
- Restrictions on certain activities
These approaches are now reconsidered for several reasons:
- Antihistamines: Can have side effects and do more than influence inner ear fluid
- Benzodiazepines: Carry risks of dependency and other unwanted effects
- Activity restrictions: May slow recovery instead of supporting it
Today, methods such as the Epley maneuver are often recommended to stop a BPPV episode. While effective at relieving immediate symptoms, these maneuvers do not address structural factors that may influence recurrent vertigo or reduce the risk of falls during severe episodes.
Upper Cervical Alignment and Long-Term Vertigo Support
At Advanced Spinal Care in Washington, we explore whether structural misalignment in the upper cervical spine may contribute to vertigo.
The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, located at the base of the skull, play a critical role in supporting the head and protecting the brainstem. The brainstem coordinates communication between the brain and body, including signals that help maintain balance. A misalignment—commonly called Atlas Subluxation—can affect this communication and influence how the inner and middle ear process motion and orientation.
How NUCCA Works
We use the specialized NUCCA to evaluate and correct misalignments in the upper cervical spine. NUCCA is distinct from general chiropractic approaches in several ways:
- Detailed imaging is used to pinpoint the exact location and degree of misalignment
- Adjustments are gentle and precise, targeting the atlas and axis vertebrae
- The procedure does not involve twisting, cracking, or popping of the neck
- Each adjustment is customized to the patient’s anatomy
During a NUCCA correction, a low-force pressure is applied to a specific point on the neck. The goal is to restore structural alignment and allow the nervous system to communicate more efficiently. Many patients report that proper alignment supports improved balance and stability.
Supporting Natural Balance and Function
Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses on correcting Atlas Subluxation rather than treating symptoms directly. By restoring alignment, the body has a better opportunity to maintain normal communication between the brain and body, which may support overall balance and reduce the frequency or severity of vertigo episodes.
Schedule a NUCCA Evaluation
If you experience BPPV or other forms of vertigo, a NUCCA evaluation can help determine whether Atlas Subluxation may be present and whether correcting that alignment may support better balance and stability.
To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click the button below.
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Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care, in Graham, Washington is one of 27 Board Certified NUCCA Doctors worldwide. His clinic serves the highest quality upper cervical care in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Lapenski also serves a number of patients who are out of state including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New York, and more! He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, vertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/