Why Some Patients Experience Less Dizziness After Upper Cervical Treatment

– Understanding the Link Between the Upper Neck and Balance

by Son’s Rehabilitation Medicine & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

When people think of dizziness, they often associate it with inner ear problems. However, in clinical settings, we often meet patients whose dizziness persists despite normal ear examinations. In these cases, issues in the upper cervical spine—especially the C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) vertebrae—may play a significant role.

The Upper Cervical Spine and Its Role in Balance

The upper cervical region supports the skull and plays a critical role in coordinating head and neck movement. Several important anatomical structures pass through or near this area:

  • Vertebral Arteries: These travel through the upper cervical vertebrae to supply blood to the brainstem, cerebellum, and inner ear structures responsible for balance.

  • Proprioceptors: Located in muscles and joints around the neck, they send signals to the brain about the position and movement of the body—essential for maintaining equilibrium.

  • Autonomic Nervous System Connections: The sympathetic nervous system can also be influenced by dysfunction in the upper cervical spine, which may contribute to dizziness or imbalance.

How Dysfunction in the Upper Cervical Spine May Contribute to Dizziness

When there is misalignment or abnormal motion in the upper neck, the following may occur:

  • Muscle tension and imbalance, affecting proprioceptive feedback

  • Reduced vertebral artery blood flow, impairing circulation to balance-related brain centers

  • Autonomic nervous system dysregulation, leading to symptoms such as lightheadedness, nausea, or a feeling of unsteadiness

These symptoms may also be accompanied by neck pain, stiffness, or headaches.

Why Upper Cervical Treatment May Help

Manual therapies that aim to restore alignment and motion to the upper cervical spine—such as chiropractic techniques or specialized physical therapy—may provide relief through mechanisms such as:

  • Improving local joint and muscle function

  • Enhancing vertebral artery circulation

  • Restoring accurate proprioceptive signaling to the brain

  • Modulating autonomic nervous system function

Who Might Benefit?

Patients may benefit from upper cervical evaluation and care in cases such as:

  • Persistent dizziness with no clear inner ear cause

  • Dizziness accompanied by neck discomfort or poor posture

  • Symptoms that worsen with head or neck movements

  • Temporary relief following stretching or posture correction

Disclaimer: This post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing dizziness, consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.

👍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)

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