Vertigo is more than just a simple dizzy spell—it’s a disorienting condition that can turn your world quite literally upside down. Imagine feeling like you’re spinning, even when you’re standing perfectly still, or experiencing sudden waves of dizziness that make everyday activities feel impossible. For those suffering from vertigo, finding relief becomes a desperate quest for stability and comfort.
What is vertigo?
Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a sensation of spinning or movement when you’re actually stationary. Unlike general lightheadedness, vertigo creates a powerful illusion of motion that can be incredibly debilitating.
Common types of vertigo
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
- Most common type of vertigo
- Caused by displaced calcium crystals in the inner ear
- Triggered by specific head movements
- Often occurs suddenly and can last seconds to minutes
Vestibular Neuritis
- Caused by inner ear inflammation
- Often results from viral infections
- Can cause severe spinning sensations
- May be accompanied by hearing loss or tinnitus
Meniere’s Disease
- Chronic inner ear disorder
- Characterized by recurring vertigo episodes
- Often includes hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear pressure
- Can be unpredictable and long-lasting
Cervicogenic Vertigo
- Originates from neck problems
- Caused by neck muscle or joint issues
- Can result from poor posture or neck injuries
What are the root causes of vertigo?
Understanding why vertigo occurs is crucial to effective treatment:
Physiological triggers
- Inner ear canal disruptions
- Neurological imbalances
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Hormonal changes
- Cardiovascular issues
- Neurological conditions
Lifestyle & environmental factors
- Chronic stress
- Poor sleep patterns
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Medication side effects
- Prolonged screen time
- Sedentary lifestyle
Acupuncture helps with neurological rebalancing
With the insertion of thin needles into the body, acupuncture stimulates specific nerve pathways and helps reset neural communication. This ancient Chinese medicine can also reduce neurological hypersensitivity and promote natural healing mechanisms.
Acupuncture improves inner ear circulation
As mentioned inner ear inflammation can cause vertigo. By visiting our clinic, acupuncture can help enhance the blood flow to your inner ear structures, reducing inflammation and supporting your body’s natural healing processes. Acupuncture can also help restore your inner ear balance, making you feel less unsteady on your feet!
Acupuncture reduces stress
Vertigo can be a stressful condition, particularly when coupled with stressful situations such as flying (for anxious flyers) or that board meeting at work. By incorporating acupuncture into your healing journey, it can promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension. Acupuncture may also help with lowering your cortisol levels and supporting your overall nervous system health.
Specific acupuncture points for vertigo
During your first acupuncture session, one of our caring practitioners will focus on specific points associated with balance and neurological function. This could be points around your ear and skull or the neck and shoulder meridian or systematic points that support overall body harmony.
During your consultation at Lycoming Orthopedics & Sports Acupuncture, we will tailor an acupuncture treatment plan to work with your symptoms of vertigo and what you would like to achieve both in the short and long term.
What to expect during your vertigo acupuncture treatment process
At Lycoming Orthopedics & Sports Acupuncture, all patients start with an initial consultation. Here, one of our trained practitioners will go through your health history, and a detailed vertigo symptom assessment, and identify any underlying causes for the vertigo. From here we can create a personalized treatment plan suited for you.
Once you are comfortable and we have answered any questions, we will begin your healing journey. Your personal practitioner will insert ultra-thin needles into strategic points, typically for 30-45 minutes per session. How often you will need acupuncture will depend on your vertigo severity. For most patients suffering from vertigo, in the beginning, we suggest visiting our clinic 1-2 times per week.
Will I feel pain during acupuncture treatment?
Most patients feel mild tingling sensations coupled with deep relaxation. Some patients also feel immediate symptom reduction while others find gradual improvement over multiple sessions.
Acupuncture offers long-term vertigo management
Acupuncture doesn’t just offer temporary relief but supports long-term healing, it is a comprehensive approach. It enhances natural healing mechanisms that support overall body balance over time. It can also address root causes and reduce the probability of vertigo recurring.
To make the most of the lasting benefits of acupuncture for vertigo, your practitioner may also recommend specific exercises, massage therapy, stress management techniques, lifestyle modifications, and changes to your diet.
Acupuncture aftercare
After your acupuncture session at Lycoming Orthopedics & Sports Acupuncture, we recommend staying hydrated, avoiding sudden head movements, managing stress levels as best as you can, and maintaining regular sleep schedules.
If you frequently suffer from vertigo, we may suggest regular acupuncture sessions and incorporating balance-supporting exercises such as gentle neck stretches to release tension.
When to seek additional medical attention for vertigo
While acupuncture can be highly effective, certain vertigo symptoms require immediate medical evaluation, if you suffer from any of the following, see a medical expert:
- Sudden, severe vertigo
- Accompanying hearing loss
- Vision changes
- Persistent symptoms
- Neurological warning signs
Conclusion
Vertigo doesn’t have to control your life. Acupuncture offers a gentle, holistic approach to managing this challenging condition. By addressing both symptoms and underlying causes, it provides hope for those seeking natural, comprehensive healing.
Ready to regain your balance and reclaim your life? Our experienced practitioners at Lycoming Orthopedic & Sports Acupuncture are committed to helping you navigate your healing journey with compassion and expertise. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards a more stable, comfortable future.
