vestibular (dizziness or vertigo)

The vestibular system provides our sense of balance and spacial orientation to coordinate movement. This system includes the inner ear, which communications with our brains to control eye movement and keep our bodies upright. In turn, our brain uses the vestibular system to determine our body’s position and acceleration from moment to moment. When our vestibular system does not function properly, we suffer symptoms of vertigo and dizziness.

One of the most common causes of acute dizziness is called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. This occurs when one of the small crystals in the inner ear gets displaced. Other common vestibular symptoms include  imbalance and spatial disorientation, visual disturbances, and hearing changes. Our vestibular systems can also be disrupted when our cervico-ocular reflex is unable to work properly due to restrictions and joints in the upper part of the neck.  In any situations involving the vestibular system, our goal is to minimize dizziness, improve balance and prevent falls by restoring normal function.