Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness and Vertigo: Osteopathic Evaluation and Treatment
Dizziness and vertigo are unsettling sensations that can significantly affect balance, concentration, and daily functioning. Some patients describe dizziness as a feeling of lightheadedness or disorientation, while vertigo often involves the false perception that the room is spinning. These symptoms may arise from disturbances in the vestibular system, neck mechanics, or nervous system regulation. At a practice specializing in Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, we provide comprehensive evaluation and hands-on treatment to identify and address the underlying structural and functional causes of dizziness and vertigo.
Understanding Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness and vertigo can result from a range of conditions involving the inner ear, altered righting reflexes of the cervical and axial spine, disrupted proprioception upwards from the feet, or abnormal central nervous system functioning including contributions from the eyes. The vestibular system—located in the inner ear—plays a vital role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. When this system, or its connection with the eyes, neck, and brain, is disrupted, the body may struggle to interpret sensory signals correctly, producing dizziness or vertigo.
Osteopathic medicine recognizes that mechanical dysfunctions in the head, neck, or upper back can contribute to these symptoms by affecting blood flow, nerve communication, and muscular tension. Addressing these interrelated factors helps promote balance and relieve discomfort.
Common Causes and Contributing Factors
Several underlying issues can lead to dizziness and vertigo, including:
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
Inner ear infections or inflammation (labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis).
Cervical spine dysfunction or tension (cervicogenic dizziness).
Head or neck trauma such as whiplash or concussion (Please see Concussion and Whiplash).
Circulatory or nerve irritation affecting the vestibular system.
Chronic stress or postural imbalance influencing equilibrium.
Because dizziness and vertigo can originate from multiple systems, effective treatment relies on a thorough evaluation and a whole-body perspective.
Who Is Affected
Dizziness and vertigo affect individuals of all ages, though they are more common among adults and older populations. Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly and can range from mild unsteadiness to intense spinning sensations accompanied by nausea or visual disturbances. People recovering from injury or managing chronic neck tension are particularly susceptible (Please see Neck Pain). Persistent or recurrent episodes can interfere with work, exercise, and quality of life, highlighting the importance of timely and accurate assessment.
The Role of Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine
Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine offers a distinct and integrative approach to the evaluation and management of dizziness and vertigo. An Osteopathic Physician (DO) trained in this specialty performs a detailed structural and neurologic examination to assess motion restrictions, muscular tone, and vascular or neural pathways influencing balance.
Gentle, hands-on techniques—such as cranial osteopathy, soft tissue treatment, balanced ligamentous tension, and cervical spine mobilization—are used to optimize mechanics and relieve irritation in the structures that affect equilibrium. For patients with BPPV or related vestibular conditions, Osteopathic treatment may complement repositioning maneuvers and rehabilitation exercises.
By improving neck mobility, enhancing cranial and vascular circulation, and calming the autonomic nervous system, Osteopathic care addresses both the mechanical and neurological contributors to dizziness and vertigo.
Seeking Care for Ongoing Symptoms
If dizziness or vertigo persists or recurs despite rest or medication, an Osteopathic evaluation can provide valuable insights into contributing structural factors. Early intervention helps minimize symptom progression and supports recovery of balance and stability. Many patients experience improved posture, reduced neck strain, and greater confidence in movement following treatment.
Our practice specializes in diagnosing and treating dizziness and vertigo using an individualized, biomechanical, and neurologically informed approach. If you experience recurrent dizziness, balance issues, or vertigo, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Levi. Through precise assessment and gentle, hands-on treatment, we can help restore stability, comfort, and confidence in your daily activities.