Vertigo and dizziness are often confused because their symptoms overlap significantly. Vertigo is typically described as a “spinning room” sensation, where the world around you appears to be spinning while you remain stationary. On the other hand, dizziness is more of a balance issue, where your equilibrium fails to function properly. Both conditions can have a brainstem origin, with dizziness often originating from crystals in the inner ear. The Epley maneuver is a beneficial prescriptive exercise for crystals in the ear and can effectively manage dizziness.

Vertigo, being a central nervous system disorder, requires a more complex treatment approach. It involves the vestibulocochlear nerve, which is responsible for both balance and hearing. The problem with vertigo is that the sensory information from the ears (balance sense) and the visual input from the eyes mismatch. Interestingly, many people with vertigo find some relief when they close their eyes, effectively eliminating the visual input that contributes to the mismatch.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic in Lousiville CO can help alleviate these symptoms by influencing the neurological input into the brainstem, which is where the vestibulocochlear nerve originates.