The leading cause of vertigo, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo occurs when small crystals located within semi-circular canal (inner ear) become dislodged. BPPV onset can occur following trauma (the crystal becomes dislodged) or with age (dislodging risk increases with age). BPPV affects all ages, more so in the elderly, with greater likelihood occurring in females.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Some signs and symptoms we may see:
- Moderate to severe vertigo symptoms
- Vertigo characterized as more rotational
- Nausea & vomiting
- Episodes lasting seconds to a minute
- Change of head positions increase symptoms
Chiropractic Treatment & Management
Chiropractic care and management may include repositioning techniques (i.e epley’s maneurvre), post treatment care and self-management advice.
Cervicogenic Vertigo
Altered nervous system feedback from the cervical spine can lead to a change in orientation and sense of disequilibrium. This can result following cervical injury, such as whiplash injuries.
As the underlying issue is caused by structures in the cervical spine, we typically should expect an improvement in vertigo with treatments focused on relieving neck pain and improving function.
Some signs and symptoms we may see:
- Neck pain/limited neck motion/headaches
- Dizziness episodes often lasting for minutes to hours
- Symptoms increase with neck movements
- Symptoms reduce with neck pain relief
Chiropractic Treatment & Management
Chiropractic care and management may include spinal manipulative techniques, spinal mobilisations and vestibular rehabilitation. This along with appropriate cervical spine rehabilitation and optimisation of postural function.
Labyrinthitis
Vertigo symptoms following a viral or bacterial infection. Unlike other causes of vertigo, labyrinthitis may lead to a change in hearing function.
Some signs and symptoms we may see:
- Sudden severe onset of vertigo
- Episode can last for days to weeks
- May present with nausea and/or vomiting
Chiropractic Treatment & Management
Chiropractic care and management is limited with this presentation and although self-limiting, may require further referral.
