Vertigo
Many people feel lightheadedness or dizziness from getting up too fast, going on a rollercoaster ride, or being out on the sea. Vertigo is the persistent feeling of nausea, spinning dizziness, and an overall feeling of being off-balance caused by an inner ear or central nervous system problem. Most confuse vertigo as a condition in and of itself, but in fact, vertigo is often a symptom of some other problem. It’s typically a big clue that there’s another issue needing attention.
Vertigo is commonly found in people aged 60+ but can affect younger people as well and people of either sex.
Traits of vertigo include:
- The feeling of spinning or the surrounding environment is spinning.
- Tilting and swaying
- Feeling off-balanced
- Leaning or being pulled in one direction
Vertigo is often accompanied by other symptoms, including:
- Ringing in the ear
- Lightheadedness
- Motion sickness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Feeling like the ear is blocked
- Migraines
Some forms of vertigo resolve themselves over time, while others require medication or therapy treatment. Working with a chiropractor can help alleviate and reduce symptoms of certain types of vertigo, such as Cervicogenic vertigo, which is when stuck joints in the neck lead to faulty movement patterns, resulting in mixed signals from the joints to the brain. Chiropractic manipulation can help release those stuck joints for the proper signals to flow freely.
To target inner ear causes of vertigo, the chiropractor may conduct the Epley Maneuver to reposition accumulated debris or the bony parts of the inner ear to the correct position. The chiropractor may also recommend specific exercises to help with inner ear problems.
It’s important to find a chiropractor you trust. If you’re looking for a Coquitlam or Port Moody Chiropractor, book an appointment with one of the qualified practitioners at Inspine Therapy for an effective and long-lasting personalized recovery plan.
What causes vertigo?
A variety of conditions can lead to vertigo—most involve an ear disorder or a cardiovascular disease.
The most common conditions that lead to vertigo include:
- BPPV or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. BPPV occurs when calcium accumulates in the inner ear canal, causing the brain to confuse one’s position, and spinning and dizziness occur. The inner ear sends signals to the brain about one’s position and movement to maintain its balance.
- Labyrinthitis. Labyrinthitis is often a result of an infection in the inner ear. Inflammation will occur in the inner ear and affect the vestibulocochlear nerve. This nerve sends signals to the brain about the body’s balance. People who suffer from labyrinthitis also experience hearing loss, ear ringing, or headaches.
- Meniere’s disease. Fluid buildup or changes in pressure in the ear can cause Meniere’s disease. This inner ear disorder is also accompanied by ringing in the ears and hearing loss.
Is vertigo hereditary?
Vertigo itself is not necessarily hereditary, but some of the conditions that cause vertigo seem to run in the family and display a genetic component.
How long does vertigo last?
It can depend on the person, and it can change every time. Vertigo can last from minutes to hours to days—demonstrating how disruptive it can be to daily life.
Need An Appointment?
Inspine Therapy is a multi-disciplinary clinic located in the heart of Coquitlam and Port Moody. We care about providing fundamental healing through all-in-one care that focuses on helping you recover, improve, and optimize your health until you’re in the best condition possible.
Our services include massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, active rehab, clinical counselling, and pilates. Visit our newly renovated clinic and book your appointment today!
