Vertigo is a false sensation of movement that can cause a person to lose balance or feel nauseous. For many, vertigo exhibits itself as a feeling that the room is spinning, but the term encompasses any improper sensation of movement. While some may only experience an occasional issue with vertigo, for others the problem is chronic.
How Does Vertigo Happen?
One recent study showed that 80% of people who suffered whiplash in motor vehicle accidents later had a reduction in the amount of fluid that cushions the brain, known as cerebrospinal fluid. When this occurs, it can lead to vertigo. So it is no wonder that many who suffer head or neck injuries begin to experience vertigo sometime after the injury occurs.
The eyes, ears, and sensors in the limbs, spine, and joints all play a role in the body’s balance system. The central nervous system (CNS) also plays an important role in interpreting all of these signals to determine where the body is in relation to its surroundings.
Upper Cervical Chiropractic and Vertigo
An accident or injury can cause a misalignment of the atlas vertebra (C1). The atlas is situated at the base of the skull and protects the brainstem. Thus, a misalignment can affect brainstem function and how the body communicates signals. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid flow may also be hindered. Vertigo is just one of the many potential results of such an injury.
An upper cervical chiropractor is specifically trained to detect and correct atlas misalignments. X-rays are taken to measure the location and degree of the misalignment precisely. Then a personalized low force correction is administered to each patient. This is called the NUCCA technique, and it is the method of upper cervical chiropractic that we use at Advanced Spinal Washington.
If you are experiencing vertigo, especially if you have a history of head or neck trauma, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Upper cervical care may be your first step in becoming vertigo free as it has been for many patients in case studies.
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