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Two weeks ago I reached for a glass of water in bed and the room was suddenly spinning. I hadn’t felt anything like this since I was on the Cyclone rollercoaster at Coney Island in 1986.
Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or dizziness that can disrupt daily life. That’s putting it mildly. I couldn’t drive for 4 days. In my case and many of my patients, it’s a disruption in the crystals in the inner ear referred to as BPPV. The solution for this is often Vestibular Therapy and I was lucky enough to have Meg over at Greenwood Physical Therapy help with the Epley Maneuver.
While vertigo itself is not a disease, it is a symptom of various underlying conditions, such as inner ear problems, migraines, or neurological issues. For those seeking a natural and holistic approach to managing vertigo, PT as well as acupuncture can really help.
WHAT CAUSES VERTIGO?
Vertigo often stems from issues within the vestibular system, which includes the inner ear and brain structures responsible for balance. Common causes of vertigo include:
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Triggered by changes in head position, BPPV is caused by dislodged calcium particles in the inner ear.
Vestibular Neuritis: Inflammation of the inner ear due to viral infections.
Ménière’s Disease: A chronic inner ear disorder associated with fluid buildup, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
Migraines: Certain types of migraines can cause vertigo, even without a headache.
Neurological Conditions: Less commonly, vertigo can be linked to conditions like multiple sclerosis or stroke.
Symptoms of vertigo may include nausea, vomiting, unsteady balance, headaches, and sweating. Conventional treatments often include medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle adjustments, but many people turn to acupuncture for its natural and effective approach.
HOW ACUPUNCTURE ADDRESSES VERTIGO
Acupuncture, a key practice in TCM, involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, or “Qi,” and restore balance. In the context of vertigo, acupuncture addresses the root causes of imbalance and enhances the body’s ability to heal.
Restoring Balance in the Inner Ear
Acupuncture helps regulate the flow of Qi and blood to the head, neck and ears, reducing the symptoms associated with vestibular dysfunction.
Targeted acupuncture points, such as those around the ears and neck, can relieve pressure and improve circulation.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Vertigo can be exacerbated by stress and tension and can often trigger a panic attack. Acupuncture has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
Stress-relief points are often included in treatments to enhance emotional well-being.
Supporting Neurological Health
Acupuncture stimulates the body’s natural ability to repair and regulate neurological function, addressing vertigo caused by migraines or other neurological disorders.
By harmonizing Qi in the brain and spine, acupuncture can alleviate dizziness and improve coordination.
Addressing Root Causes
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, vertigo may be linked to imbalances in the liver, spleen, or kidneys. Acupuncture treatments focus on harmonizing these organs, which are believed to play a role in maintaining balance and fluid regulation.
EVIDENCE SUPPORTING ACUPUNCTURE FOR VERTIGO
Research suggests that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for managing vertigo. Studies have shown that acupuncture:
Reduces the severity and frequency of vertigo episodes.
Improves overall balance and coordination.
Enhances the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic dizziness.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture was effective in reducing vertigo symptoms in individuals with vestibular dysfunction. Other research highlights its ability to alleviate nausea and vomiting, common symptoms of vertigo.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING AN ACUPUNCTURE SESSION FOR VERTIGO
If you’re considering acupuncture for vertigo, here’s what you can expect during a session:
Initial Consultation: Your acupuncturist will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle to create a personalized treatment plan.
Needle Placement: Thin needles will be inserted into specific points, such as P6 (for nausea associated with vertigo) on the wrist, LI4 (Hegu) on the hand (for headache involvement before or after) and GB20 (for vestibular issues) at the base of the skull.
Relaxation: The needles are typically left in place for 20-30 minutes while you relax. Many people find the experience calming and restorative.
Frequency of Treatments: The number of sessions required depends on the severity and underlying cause of your vertigo. Some individuals notice improvement after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment.
Acupuncture provides a safe and effective way to manage vertigo, addressing both the symptoms and root causes. By restoring balance, reducing stress, and supporting neurological health, acupuncture and physical therapy offer lasting relief for those struggling with this challenging condition. If vertigo is affecting your quality of life, consider consulting a licensed acupuncturist and physical therapist to explore this time-tested therapy.