Why Upper Cervical Care May Help Improve Meniere’s Symptoms?

by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

Meniere’s disease is a chronic inner ear condition characterized by recurrent episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, ear fullness, and tinnitus. Although its exact cause remains unknown, many experts believe it involves abnormal fluid buildup (endolymphatic hydrops) in the inner ear.

Interestingly, some patients have reported improvements in their symptoms after receiving upper cervical care—a gentle, non-invasive approach focusing on the alignment of the uppermost vertebrae in the neck, known as the atlas (C1) and axis (C2). But how can realigning the neck affect inner ear disorders like Meniere’s?

Let’s explore the neurological mechanisms and supporting evidence behind this connection.

1. Connection Between the Upper Cervical Spine and Brainstem / Vestibular System

The atlas and axis are located near the brainstem, which plays a central role in balance, hearing, and autonomic nervous system regulation. Misalignment in this area can lead to mechanical stress or functional interference in brainstem activity, possibly disrupting signals between the brain and the vestibular (balance) system.

📚 Relevant Studies

  • Hulse M. Cervicogenic vertigo: epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. (2000)

  • Franz L. G. et al. Atlas realignment and its effect on symptoms of Meniere’s: A case series. (2010)

2. Autonomic Nervous System Regulation and Improved Inner Ear Fluid Circulation

The upper cervical region is closely related to the autonomic nervous system, especially the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion. Misalignment in this area may lead to overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system, which can constrict blood vessels and impair inner ear fluid regulation. Gentle realignment may help restore autonomic balance and improve endolymphatic drainage, potentially relieving pressure in the inner ear.

📚 Supporting Research

  • Uemura T. et al. The role of the autonomic nervous system in Ménière’s disease. Auris Nasus Larynx (1980)

  • Takeda T. Autonomic nervous dysfunction in Meniere’s disease assessed by HRV analysis. Acta Otolaryngol (1999)

3. Vertebral Artery Flow and Blood Supply to the Inner Ear

The vertebral arteries, which pass through the cervical spine, are responsible for delivering blood to the brainstem and parts of the inner ear. Misalignment of C1 or C2 can affect blood flow and create instability in the vestibular system’s oxygen and nutrient supply. Upper cervical adjustments may enhance vertebral artery flow, supporting optimal function of the inner ear structures.

📚 Relevant Articles

  • Hulse M, Holzl M. Cervicogenic vertigo—pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy. HNO (2000)

  • Thomas F. Vertebral artery blood flow velocity changes in cervical vertigo patients. J Manipulative Physiol Ther (2005)

Who May Benefit from Upper Cervical Care?

Upper cervical care is not a universal treatment for Meniere’s disease. However, it may be helpful for individuals who:

  • Have not responded well to conventional medication

  • Have symptoms that began after neck injury or trauma

  • Experience vertigo along with neck pain or headaches

A Careful, Personalized Approach

At Son’s Neurorehabilitation Clinic, we do not claim upper cervical adjustments cure Meniere’s disease. However, based on clinical observations and emerging evidence, we believe it may serve as a supportive approach for select individuals—especially those with upper cervical dysfunction contributing to neurological imbalance.

All care is provided after thorough evaluation by a licensed rehabilitation physician with training in upper cervical chiropractic techniques.


👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)

chson@daum.net


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