In the case of vertigo, the patient’s periodic attacks are due to the same dysfunction that causes a phobia or PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) in another person.  When these patients are examined the doctor almost always finds an improper relationship between the first cervical vertebrae and the skull.  This is known as an occipital-atlanto fixation, and was first described many years ago by Dr. Goodheart.  We hypothesize that this is causing sub-occipital muscle spasm affecting the inner ear balance mechanism.  The atlanto occipital joint is less than an inch away from the inner ear, as is the TMJ joint.  In my experience, any slight mal-position of these structures can perpetuate an inner ear problem.  These are corrected with a very light directional pressure.

Source: Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients, Oct. 2002

Therapy of functional disorders of the craniovertebral joints in vestibular diseases

By: Mahlstedt K, Westhofen M, Konig K.

Cervicogenic vertigo is caused by functional disorders of the craniovertebral joints.  Improvement of vertiginous systems by chiropractic care was often described.  The therapeutic effect of chiropractic care in 28 patients with vertigo and purely functional disorders of the upper cervical spine was evaluated.  Improvement of symptoms on all patients was seen.  In our opinion chiropractic care is mandatory for the therapy of patients with vestibular affections and functional disorders of the craniovertebral joints.

Source: PMID: 1616544

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