Vertigo Chiropractor in Dubuque, IA

Vertigo is like feeling totally dizzy, but it’s a little different. It’s when you get this weird sensation of spinning or moving even though everything around you is totally still. People experiencing vertigo often feel as if they or their surroundings are rotating, tilting, or swaying even when they are stationary. This sensation can be distressing and may lead to feelings of imbalance, nausea, and even vomiting in some cases.

Usually, what causes this condition is problems with the inner ear or the vestibular system. These are the parts of our body that help us keep our balance and know where we are in space. The inner ear contains structures like the semicircular canals and the vestibule, which provide information to the brain about the body’s position and movement.

Two Main Types Of Vertigo

• Peripheral Vertigo: When you have this kind of dizziness, it’s usually because something’s not right with your inner ear, especially the semicircular canals. There are a few conditions that fall into this category, like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, and Meniere’s disease. Peripheral vertigo, which is one type of vertigo, usually happens when you make sudden movements with your head and it can come and go.
• Central Vertigo: Central vertigo is related to issues within the central nervous system, specifically the brainstem or cerebellum. It can be caused by conditions like migraines, vestibular migraine, and multiple sclerosis. Central vertigo tends to be less affected by head movements and might be associated with other neurological symptoms.

Common symptoms of vertigo include:

• Spinning Sensation: The primary symptom is the false sensation of spinning, which may be mild or severe.
• Nausea and Vomiting: The spinning sensation can lead to feelings of nausea and, in some cases, vomiting.
• Imbalance and Unsteadiness: Individuals with vertigo might have difficulty maintaining balance and feel unsteady on their feet.
• Visual Disturbances: Rapid eye movements (nystagmus) can occur, and visual disturbances might accompany the spinning sensation.
• Sweating and Anxiety: The distressing nature of vertigo can lead to increased anxiety and physical reactions like sweating.

Chiropractic treatment can offer several potential advantages for individuals experiencing vertigo, especially when the condition is related to issues in the musculoskeletal system, particularly the neck and spine.

While chiropractic care may not be appropriate for all types of vertigo (especially central vertigo caused by neurological conditions), it can be beneficial for certain cases of peripheral vertigo.

Here are some potential advantages of chiropractic treatment for vertigo:

• Addressing Cervical Misalignments: Chiropractors are trained to detect and correct misalignments (subluxations) in the spine, including the cervical (neck) region. Misalignments in the neck can affect the blood flow and nerve function to the inner ear, potentially contributing to vertigo symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore proper alignment and function, which may alleviate vertigo caused by cervical issues.
• Improving Blood Flow and Nerve Function: Proper alignment of the spine can enhance blood circulation and nerve transmission throughout the body. If restricted blood flow or nerve irritation in the neck is contributing to vertigo, chiropractic adjustments may help improve these factors.
• Alleviating Tension and Muscle Spasms: Muscular tension and spasms in the neck and upper back can contribute to discomfort and dizziness. Chiropractic care can involve techniques such as soft tissue manipulation and gentle stretches that help release tension and reduce muscle spasms, potentially relieving vertigo symptoms.
• Restoring Normal Vestibular Input: Chiropractic adjustments can influence the function of the vestibular system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. Proper alignment of the cervical spine may help restore normal input to the vestibular system, aiding in the management of vertigo.
• Complementary Approach: Chiropractic care can be used as a complementary approach alongside other treatments for vertigo. For example, if the cause of vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a chiropractor may work in conjunction with medical professionals who specialize in vestibular rehabilitation to provide a comprehensive treatment plan.
• Individualized Care: Chiropractic care is often tailored to the individual’s specific condition and needs. A chiropractor will conduct a thorough assessment to determine whether chiropractic adjustments are appropriate and safe for the type of vertigo the patient is experiencing.
• Non-Invasive and Drug-Free: Chiropractic treatment for vertigo is generally non-invasive and drug-free. This can be especially appealing for individuals who prefer natural approaches to managing their health conditions.

It’s important to note that chiropractic care may not be suitable for all cases of vertigo, especially when central neurological issues are the primary cause. Before seeking chiropractic treatment for vertigo, it’s crucial to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.

If chiropractic care is deemed appropriate, it’s advisable to work with a qualified chiropractor who has experience in treating vertigo-related conditions and who can coordinate care with other healthcare providers as needed.