Vertigo

Vertigo

Vertigo is the name given to the feeling that you are spinning or the environment around you is spinning when you are still.

Vertigo can have many causes, but some common ones are:

1. BPPV (Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo)

2. Migraines

3. Various pathological conditions of the inner ear

The most important part of an assessment for Vertigo is to rule out serious causes that require medical attention. Once these causes have been eliminated either by orthopaedic testing or via referral to your GP for further tests, we can begin treatment.

For BPPV the most effective treatment is the Epley Manoeuvre. This exercise moves the head in very specific ways to move the crystals that have formed in the inner ear to provide relief. This is most effective when assisted by a professional. Some patients find they can get relief by doing at home on their own when the symptoms are mild.

For migraines that include vertigo we manage them just like we would any other migraine that has been previously screened and deemed appropriate for Chiropractic Management. We focus on relieving symptoms first with the Epley Manoeuvre and once the migraine and vertigo has subsided, we continue to focus on treating the cervical spine for restricted movements and dysfunctional tissues that effect the patient’s migraines.