Vertigo is commonly defined as a spinning sensation. A person experiencing vertigo may feel as if they are spinning, or as though the environment around them is moving. The sensation can be disorienting and difficult to manage.
Children often spin around for fun until they feel dizzy. In this case, the dizziness is temporary and self-induced. For adults, however, vertigo is rarely enjoyable and can significantly interfere with daily activities.
Vertigo can develop for several reasons. In some cases, it originates within the inner ear, which plays a major role in balance. In other situations, vertigo may be related to structural or neurological issues involving the spine.
Two Types of Vertigo
Vertigo is generally categorized into two main types: central vertigo and peripheral vertigo.
Central vertigo indicates that the source may involve the brain or the spinal structures that influence neurological communication. Various conditions have been associated with central vertigo, including:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Tumors
- Stroke
- Trauma to the head
- Heart disease
- Basilar artery migraines
Peripheral vertigo, on the other hand, occurs when the issue originates within the inner ear structures that help regulate balance and spatial orientation.
In some situations, lifestyle habits or medications may also play a role in triggering or worsening vertigo episodes.
Factors That May Influence Vertigo
Certain habits or substances have been associated with vertigo symptoms in some individuals, including:
- Drinking alcohol
- Taking antidepressant medications
- Taking aspirin
- Medications prescribed for high blood pressure or seizures
- Smoking
Because vertigo can have multiple potential causes, a careful evaluation is often necessary to determine what factors may be contributing to the condition.
The Upper Neck and Nervous System Function
The upper portion of the spine plays an important role in balance and neurological communication. The top bone of the spine, known as the atlas (C1), supports the head and surrounds the lower portion of the brainstem.
The brainstem acts as a communication hub between the brain and the rest of the body. When the atlas vertebra shifts out of its normal alignment—a condition often referred to as Atlas Subluxation—it can create structural stress in this sensitive region of the spine.
Because the upper cervical spine is extremely delicate, even a very small misalignment may influence posture, muscle tension, and the way the body maintains balance.
A Precise Approach with NUCCA
At Advanced Spinal Care, we evaluate the alignment of the upper cervical spine using a specialized technique known as NUCCA.
NUCCA stands for the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association and focuses specifically on correcting alignment of the atlas vertebra.
This approach differs from traditional chiropractic techniques in several ways:
- Detailed measurements and imaging are used to analyze spinal alignment
- Adjustments are extremely gentle and precise
- There is no twisting, cracking, or popping of the neck
- Each correction is customized to the patient’s specific misalignment
The goal of a NUCCA correction is to restore proper structural balance in the upper cervical spine. When the head and neck are aligned correctly, the body often has an improved opportunity to maintain balance and efficient nervous system communication.
Supporting the Body’s Natural Balance
NUCCA care focuses on correcting Atlas Subluxation rather than treating specific symptoms. When alignment at the top of the spine is restored, the body can function in a more balanced and efficient way.
Many patients choose this approach because it addresses the structural relationship between the head, neck, and nervous system rather than focusing only on temporary symptom relief.
Schedule a NUCCA Evaluation
If you experience vertigo—especially if you have a history of head or neck trauma—it may be beneficial to have the alignment of your upper cervical spine evaluated.
A NUCCA consultation can help determine whether Atlas Subluxation may be present and whether correcting that misalignment could support better overall balance and nervous system function.
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/