Chiropractic Treatment and Vertigo: What You Need to Know

What is BPPV?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is an inner ear condition that causes sudden, brief episodes of spinning. It often happens when you move your head in certain directions, like rolling over in bed or looking up.

Common triggers of BPPV include:

• Head injuries or whiplash (especially under age 50)

• Inner ear degeneration due to aging (common in seniors)

• Viral infections like a cold

• Use of certain medications (e.g., gentamicin)

In about half of BPPV cases, the cause is unknown—this is called idiopathic BPPV.

How Chiropractors Diagnose Vertigo

At your first visit, your chiropractor will take a detailed case history and conduct a full physical and neurological examination.

To confirm BPPV, they may perform a test called the Dix-Hallpike manoeuvre. This helps determine if your dizziness is due to a problem in the inner ear (peripheral vertigo) or the brain (central vertigo).

Chiropractic Treatment for BPPV

If your chiropractor confirms BPPV, they can start treatment right away. This usually involves repositioning manoeuvres, such as the:

• Epley Manoeuvre

• Semont Manoeuvre

These techniques guide displaced calcium crystals (called otoconia) within your inner ear back to a position where they no longer cause symptoms.

What to Expect from Treatment:

• Most people feel better after just 1–3 sessions

• About 80% of patients are symptom-free within 3–4 treatments

• Home exercises, called vestibular rehabilitation, help support recovery

• Recurrence happens in about 15% of cases per year, but is often mild and easily managed

Why Choose a Chiropractor for Vertigo?

Chiropractors are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat many causes of dizziness—especially those linked to the spine, nervous system, or inner ear. They use the same manoeuvres as medical professionals who specialise in vestibular disorders.

At the Isis Chiropractic Centres, we regularly see patients with vertigo—especially as NHS wait times grow and fewer doctors specialise in these conditions.

When Chiropractic Isn’t the Right Fit

Not all types of dizziness can be treated with chiropractic care. If your chiropractor finds signs of a more serious issue, such as stroke or neurological disease, they will refer you back to your GP or a specialist immediately.

Don’t Rely on Medication Alone

Many patients are prescribed drugs like Stemetil or Compazine (prochlorperazine). These may reduce symptoms but can cause drowsiness and other side effects. They do not treat the root cause.

Instead of masking symptoms, seek a proper diagnosis and effective treatment.

Ready to Get Help?

If you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo, don’t wait. Contact Isis Chiropractic Centres for a thorough assessment and personalised care plan.