As a Neuro Rehabilitation Chiropractor, I frequently encounter patients experiencing dizziness, balance issues, and nausea, often described as vertigo or motion sickness. These conditions, while distinct, share similar characteristics and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Understanding the root causes and exploring chiropractic care as a solution can provide relief and improve overall well-being.

What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness, often triggered by changes in head position. Many patients describe it as the world moving around them, even when they are still. Vertigo can range from mild, short episodes to more severe, prolonged attacks. It’s commonly associated with inner ear problems, specifically the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance.

One of the most common causes of vertigo is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Other causes may include ENT & tooth infections, whiplash, head injuries, concussions and post-concussion syndrome, shingles and chronic viral load, long COVID, or conditions like Ménière’s disease.

What is Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness occurs when there is a disconnect between what the eyes see and what the inner ear senses. For example, when you’re in a moving car or on a boat, your body feels the motion, but if your eyes are focused on a stationary object (like a book or phone), this sensory conflict can cause nausea, dizziness, and discomfort. While anyone can experience motion sickness, some people are more prone to it due to increased sensitivity in the vestibular system.

How Can Chiropractic Care Help?

Neuro Rehabilitative Chiropractic care addresses these conditions by focusing on the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and inner ear. The neck in particular plays a critical role in balance and coordination. Misalignments in the cervical spine (neck) can interfere with the nervous system’s ability to communicate properly with the brain and inner ear, potentially contributing to vertigo and motion sickness symptoms.

Here is how chiropractic adjustments can help:

• Cervical spine adjustments: Gentle, precise adjustments to the neck can help restore proper alignment, reducing nerve interference that may contribute to dizziness and balance issues. This can improve communication between the brain and the vestibular system, addressing one of the root causes of vertigo.

• Vestibular rehabilitation: A Neuro Rehabilitation Chiropractor can guide patients through specific exercises that help retrain the vestibular system. These exercises may include movements that realign the inner ear crystals in cases of BPPV or improve the body’s ability to process motion-related signals.

• Postural correction: Improving posture through chiropractic care can reduce strain on the neck and head, which can often exacerbate vertigo and motion sickness. Poor posture can place unnecessary pressure on the cervical spine, worsening dizziness and balance problems.

• Lifestyle and dietary recommendations: Some triggers for vertigo and motion sickness may stem from poor lifestyle habits or dietary factors, such as dehydration, stress, or food sensitivities. As a holistic health care professional, Dr. Anthony works with patients to identify these triggers and recommend changes to support their recovery.

When to Seek Chiropractic Care

If you’re experiencing frequent or severe vertigo or motion sickness, chiropractic care can be a non-invasive, drug-free approach to finding relief. Many patients who have tried other treatments, such as medications or physical therapy, find that chiropractic adjustments provide a more natural and lasting solution.

Chiropractic care isn’t just about addressing the symptoms—it’s about restoring balance to your body and helping you feel your best. If dizziness or motion sickness is interfering with your daily life, consider a strategy call with Dr. Anthony to explore how improving spinal health and nervous system function can help you regain control and comfort.

In conclusion, vertigo and motion sickness can be challenging to live with, but understanding the role that your spine and nervous system play in these conditions opens up new possibilities for treatment. Dr. Anthony’s goal is to help you achieve balance — both physically and metaphorically — so you can move through life with confidence and ease. 

Ask Dr. Anthony how we can work together to achieve greater health and vitality for YOU!