Vertigo is the feeling that the world is moving when it is not. The room spins, balance falters, and simple movements like turning the head or rolling over in bed can trigger an episode. Vertigo is a symptom rather than a single condition, which is why patients often cycle through specialists without finding a clear answer.

Causes range. Inner ear problems are the most well-known and include conditions like benign positional vertigo. But vertigo also commonly stems from upper cervical misalignment, where vertebrae at the top of the neck affect the nerves and blood flow that govern balance. Migraines, head injuries, and reduced cerebral blood flow can all produce vertigo as well. Most patients who have lived with vertigo have heard several different explanations, and the truth is often a combination.

Dr. Lena Hartwell starts with a careful look at the upper cervical spine, because that is where chiropractic can make the biggest difference. The exam identifies whether the upper neck is contributing to the symptoms. If it is, a specific adjustment to the involved vertebra often produces noticeable change. If the source is purely inner ear or another system, Dr. Lena Hartwell will tell you and refer when appropriate. Many vertigo patients are surprised at how much of their problem traces back to the neck. Others have a mixed picture and benefit from chiropractic care alongside other forms of help. The point is to get an honest assessment of what role the spine plays before committing to any single path.