Vertigo & Dizziness
Symptoms We Commonly See
A spinning or "off-balance" sensation
Dizziness triggered or worsened by certain neck movements
Symptoms that developed after a neck injury, whiplash, or period of chronic tension
Vertigo alongside neck stiffness or headaches
Understanding Vertigo and Dizziness
"Dizziness" is a broad term, and pinpointing the specific type of sensation you're experiencing is an important first step in understanding potential causes.
Why It Happens
The upper cervical spine sits close to structures involved in balance and nervous system function. Misalignment or restricted movement in this area can, for some patients, contribute to vertigo or dizziness symptoms — particularly cervicogenic (neck-related) dizziness.
Common Categories
Vertigo — a specific spinning or whirling sensation, often related to the inner ear or, in some cases, the upper cervical spine
Cervicogenic dizziness — dizziness related to dysfunction or restricted movement in the neck, often triggered or worsened by certain neck movements
Lightheadedness — a feeling of near-fainting, often related to blood pressure or circulation rather than the inner ear or neck
Disequilibrium — a sense of unsteadiness or imbalance while walking, without true spinning
Common Contributing Factors
Restricted movement or misalignment in the upper cervical spine
Inner ear conditions (which require medical evaluation to diagnose)
Whiplash or other neck injuries
Chronic neck tension and postural strain
When to Seek Medical Evaluation
Seek prompt medical evaluation for dizziness accompanied by: chest pain, severe headache, difficulty speaking, facial drooping, sudden hearing loss, or if the dizziness follows a head or neck injury. These can indicate conditions requiring urgent medical attention rather than chiropractic care alone.
Vertigo and dizziness can be unsettling, especially when they don't have a clear explanation. For some patients, these symptoms are connected to function in the upper neck, close to the brainstem and nerve pathways involved in balance.
Our Approach
We use a thorough, neurologically focused Gonstead exam to evaluate function in the upper neck and identify whether restriction there may be contributing to your symptoms. Adjustments are precise and specific to what's found.
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please see a physician for evaluation of new, severe, or worsening vertigo or dizziness.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No — vertigo has many possible causes, including inner ear conditions and other neurological issues. A thorough evaluation, including ruling out other causes with your physician, is important.
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Yes, especially for new, severe, or worsening vertigo — it's important to rule out other causes before assuming it's related to the neck.
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We pay particular attention to upper cervical function and any history that might connect your symptoms to neck-related causes.
— not gripping the wall to steady yourself, or hesitant to move too quickly for fear the room will start spinning.
Holistic, non-invasive chiropractic care helps to provide a clear and hopeful path forward for you and your family, meeting you exactly where you are, whether you're dealing with a nagging ache that's overstayed its welcome or searching for real answers after years of being told to just live with it. You don't have to have all the answers today — just a willingness to explore what's possible, one gentle step at a time.