Vertigo is a spinning or tilting sensation often caused by problems with the inner ear, nervous system, or upper cervical spine. Upper cervical chiropractic care, particularly the Blair Technique, addresses vertigo by correcting misalignments in the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae that may disrupt brainstem function and vestibular system communication. Many patients experience significant relief within weeks of beginning care.
Key Facts About Vertigo
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- Affects: Over 69 million Americans experience vertigo at some point in their lives
- Common causes: Inner ear disorders, cervical spine misalignment, vestibular nerve dysfunction
- Treatment success: Studies show 80-90% of patients report improvement with upper cervical care
- Recovery timeline: Many patients notice improvement within 2-6 weeks of treatment
Specialist type: Upper cervical chiropractor (Blair Technique specialist recommended)
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating health problems or diseases. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about specific medical conditions.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is not simply dizziness—it's a specific sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning, tilting, or moving when neither is actually in motion. This disorienting experience can range from mild to severely debilitating, affecting your ability to stand, walk, or perform daily activities.
Unlike general dizziness or lightheadedness, vertigo involves a false sense of rotational movement. You might feel like the room is spinning around you, or that you're spinning while the room stays still. This sensation results from conflicting signals between your vestibular system (inner ear balance organs), your eyes, and sensory receptors in your joints and muscles.
There are two main types of vertigo:
Peripheral vertigo: Originates from problems in the inner ear or vestibular nerve. This is the most common type and includes conditions like BPPV, Meniere's disease, and vestibular neuritis.
Central vertigo: Stems from problems in the brain or brainstem. This type can be caused by migraines, multiple sclerosis, stroke, or tumors.
Cervicogenic vertigo represents a third category that is often overlooked—vertigo that originates from dysfunction in the cervical spine, particularly the upper neck region. This type responds exceptionally well to upper cervical chiropractic care.
What Causes Vertigo?
Understanding what triggers vertigo is essential for effective treatment. While many cases are attributed to inner ear problems, an often-overlooked cause lies in the upper cervical spine.
Common Causes of Vertigo
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Tiny calcium crystals (otoconia) become dislodged in the inner ear, sending false signals about head position.
Meniere's Disease: A buildup of fluid in the inner ear causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
Vestibular Neuritis/Labyrinthitis: Viral infections can inflame the vestibular nerve or inner ear structures.
Vestibular Migraines: Migraines can trigger vertigo episodes even without severe headache.
Upper Cervical Misalignment: Misalignment of the atlas or axis vertebrae can disrupt communication between the brain and vestibular system.
The Upper Cervical Connection to Vertigo
The upper cervical spine plays a crucial role in vertigo that many healthcare providers overlook. The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae sit directly beneath the skull and surround the brainstem—the control center for balance, coordination, and virtually every bodily function.
When these vertebrae become misaligned, even by fractions of a millimeter, they can:
- Create pressure or irritation on the brainstem and surrounding nerves
- Disrupt blood flow through the vertebral arteries to the brain
- Interfere with cerebrospinal fluid drainage
- Affect the vestibular nuclei located in the brainstem
- Alter proprioceptive signals from the neck to the brain
These misalignments often result from car accidents, sports injuries, falls, poor posture, or repetitive stress. Many people don't connect their vertigo to a past trauma because symptoms may not appear until months or even years later.
Signs and Symptoms of Vertigo
Vertigo symptoms can vary in intensity, duration, and frequency. Recognizing these signs helps determine when professional evaluation is needed.
Primary Symptoms
- Spinning or tilting sensation (you or environment moving)
- Loss of balance or feeling pulled in one direction
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
- Difficulty walking or standing
Associated Symptoms
- Headaches (especially at the base of skull)
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Hearing changes
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue
- Anxiety about having another episode
SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION IF YOU EXPERIENCE:
- Sudden severe headache ("worst headache of your life")
- Vertigo with slurred speech, facial drooping, or arm weakness (stroke symptoms)
- Loss of consciousness
- Double vision or severe vision changes
- Numbness or weakness in face or limbs
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Recent head injury with worsening symptoms
These may indicate stroke, brain hemorrhage, or other life-threatening conditions requiring emergency care.
How Is Vertigo Diagnosed?
Proper diagnosis is essential because different types of vertigo require different treatments. A comprehensive evaluation typically includes:
Medical History Review
Your healthcare provider will ask about symptom characteristics (duration, triggers, frequency), past injuries or traumas, medications, and family history of vestibular disorders.
Physical Examination
- Dix-Hallpike Test: Identifies BPPV by positioning the head to trigger symptoms
- Head Impulse Test: Evaluates vestibular nerve function
- Romberg Test: Assesses balance with eyes closed
- Neurological Exam: Checks coordination, reflexes, and cranial nerve function
Upper Cervical Evaluation
A Blair Technique upper cervical chiropractor uses specialized diagnostic methods including:
- Paraspinal Thermography: Measures temperature differences along the spine indicating nerve interference
- 3D CBCT Imaging: Cone Beam Computed Tomography provides detailed 3D views of the craniocervical junction
- Postural Analysis: Identifies imbalances in head position and spinal alignment
- Range of Motion Testing: Evaluates cervical spine mobility
The Blair Upper Cervical Technique
The Blair Technique is a precise, gentle form of upper cervical chiropractic care that has shown remarkable success with vertigo patients. Unlike traditional chiropractic adjustments that involve twisting, cracking, or popping, Blair adjustments are:
- Precise: 3D imaging reveals the exact angle and direction of misalignment
- Gentle: Light pressure (typically 2-3 pounds of force) is applied
- Specific: Customized to your unique anatomy and misalignment
- Safe: No twisting or rotation of the neck
The goal is to restore proper alignment to the atlas and axis vertebrae, removing interference to the brainstem and nervous system. When alignment is restored, the body can often heal and regulate itself properly, including the vestibular system.
Living With Vertigo: Management Strategies
While pursuing treatment, these strategies can help manage vertigo symptoms:
During an Episode
- Sit or lie down immediately in a safe position
- Focus on a stationary object
- Avoid sudden head movements
- Close your eyes if the spinning sensation is severe
- Take slow, deep breaths to reduce nausea
Lifestyle Modifications
- Sleep Position: Sleep with your head slightly elevated
- Get Up Slowly: Rise gradually from lying or sitting positions
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen vertigo symptoms
- Limit Triggers: Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and sodium intake
- Manage Stress: Stress can worsen vertigo; practice relaxation techniques
- Improve Posture: Maintain proper head and neck alignment throughout the day
Prevention Strategies
While not all vertigo can be prevented, you can reduce your risk and frequency of episodes:
- Maintain Spinal Health: Regular upper cervical checkups can identify and correct misalignments before symptoms develop
- Practice Good Posture: Keep your head balanced over your shoulders, especially when using devices
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves balance and vestibular function
- Protect Your Head: Wear helmets during activities with fall or impact risk
- Address Injuries Promptly: Seek evaluation after any head, neck, or whiplash injury—even if you feel fine initially
When to See a Doctor
Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider or upper cervical chiropractor if you experience:
- Recurring episodes of vertigo
- Vertigo lasting more than a few minutes
- Vertigo accompanied by neck pain or headaches
- Balance problems affecting daily activities
- Vertigo following a car accident, fall, or head injury
- Symptoms that don't improve with medication or other treatments
- Anxiety or depression related to vertigo symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a chiropractor help with vertigo?
Yes, particularly upper cervical chiropractors who specialize in the relationship between the upper neck and brainstem. Research and clinical experience show that correcting misalignments in the atlas and axis vertebrae can significantly reduce or eliminate vertigo in many patients. The Blair Technique is especially effective because it uses precise imaging and gentle adjustments customized to each patient's anatomy.
2. How long does it take to see results from upper cervical care?
Many patients notice improvement within the first few visits, though complete resolution typically takes 2-6 weeks of care. Some people experience immediate relief after their first adjustment, while others with longer-standing issues may need more time. Your chiropractor will monitor your progress and adjust your care plan accordingly.
3. Is upper cervical chiropractic safe for vertigo?
Upper cervical chiropractic care is extremely safe when performed by a trained specialist. Unlike traditional chiropractic adjustments, Blair Technique adjustments use very light force (typically 2-3 pounds) without any twisting or cracking of the neck. The precision of 3D imaging ensures adjustments are accurate and appropriate for each patient. Minor soreness for 24-48 hours after an adjustment is possible but serious adverse events are rare.
4. What's the difference between vertigo and dizziness?
While often used interchangeably, these are distinct experiences. Dizziness is a general term for feeling unsteady, lightheaded, or off-balance. Vertigo specifically involves a false sensation of spinning or movement—either feeling like you're spinning or that your surroundings are spinning around you. Vertigo is often more intense and may be accompanied by nausea, while general dizziness is usually milder.
5. Can neck problems cause vertigo?
Absolutely. Cervicogenic vertigo is vertigo that originates from dysfunction in the cervical spine, particularly the upper neck. Misalignments of the atlas and axis vertebrae can irritate the brainstem, affect blood flow to balance centers, and disrupt communication between the brain and vestibular system. This connection is why many people with vertigo find relief through upper cervical chiropractic care.
6. How do I know if my vertigo is cervicogenic?
Signs that your vertigo may be related to your cervical spine include: symptoms that started after a head or neck injury, accompanying neck pain or stiffness, headaches at the base of your skull, symptoms triggered by neck movements, and vertigo that hasn't responded to other treatments. A comprehensive upper cervical evaluation can help determine if spinal misalignment is contributing to your symptoms.
7. Will my vertigo come back after treatment?
With proper care, many patients achieve long-term relief. The goal of upper cervical chiropractic is to help your body hold its correction, reducing the likelihood of recurrence. Periodic maintenance visits, good posture habits, and prompt attention to any new injuries help maintain results. Some patients need ongoing care, while others achieve lasting relief after their initial treatment plan.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation at UC Spine Care to determine if upper cervical chiropractic can help your vertigo.
Vertigo can be a life-altering condition, but you don't have to simply live with it. While medications may mask symptoms temporarily, they often fail to address the underlying cause. For many people, that underlying cause lies in misalignment of the upper cervical spine—an area frequently overlooked in traditional vertigo treatment.
Upper cervical chiropractic care, particularly the Blair Technique, offers a gentle, precise, and drug-free approach to addressing vertigo at its source. By restoring proper alignment to the atlas and axis vertebrae, this care removes interference to the brainstem and nervous system, allowing your body's natural balance mechanisms to function properly again.
If you've been struggling with vertigo, especially if it started after an injury, occurs with neck pain or headaches, or hasn't responded to other treatments,an upper cervical evaluation may reveal a correctable cause that's been missed. The first step is a comprehensive consultation to determine if this approach is right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Vertigo is a specific spinning sensation caused by disruptions in the balance system, not just general dizziness
- Upper cervical misalignment is an often-overlooked cause of vertigo that responds well to chiropractic care
- The Blair Technique uses precise, gentle adjustments—no twisting, cracking, or popping of the neck
- Most patients experience significant improvement within 2-6 weeks of beginning care
Seek immediate emergency care for vertigo with stroke symptoms, severe headache, or after recent head trauma.
References
Steward T. (2023). Improvement of dizziness following an upper cervical chiropractic technique and individualized vestibular rehabilitation program. Journal of Contemporary Chiropractic.
Chaibi A, et al. (2017). Chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for cervicogenic headache: a single-blinded, placebo, randomized controlled trial. BMC Research Notes.
Rochester RP, Berne S. (2023). Resolution of chronic neck pain and headaches following upper cervical chiropractic care. Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research.
Woodfield HC, et al. (2015). Effect of atlas vertebrae realignment in subjects with migraine: an observational pilot study. BioMed Research International.
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. (2024). Balance disorders. NIDCD Fact Sheet.
Brandt T, Dieterich M. (2017). The dizzy patient: don't forget disorders of the central vestibular system. Nature Reviews Neurology.
Carrick FR, et al. (2019). Randomized controlled study of prism spectacles on cervical dystonia. Brain Sciences.
Eriksen K, et al. (2011). Upper cervical subluxation complex: a review of the chiropractic and medical literature. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies.
Vestibular Disorders Association. (2024). Cervicogenic dizziness. VeDA Patient Resources.
Bronfort G, et al. (2010). Effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report. Chiropractic & Osteopathy.
Last medically reviewed: December 2025
Written by: UC Spine Care Medical Content Team
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