The Science
Vertigo, Tinnitus, and Hearing Loss in the Geriatric Patient, J. Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000; 23 (5)
OBJECTIVE: To document clinical changes after a course of chiropractic care in a geriatric patient with vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
CLINICAL FEATURES: A 75-year-old woman with a longstanding history of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss experienced an intensified progression of these symptoms 5 weeks before seeking chiropractic care. Radiographs revealed a C3 retrolisthesis with moderate degenerative changes C4-C7. Significant decreases in audiologic function were evident, and the RAND 36 Health Survey revealed subjective distress.
The Adjustment
INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: The patient received upper cervical-specific chiropractic care. Paraspinal bilateral skin temperature differential analysis was used to determine when an upper cervical adjustment was to be administered. Radiographic analysis was used to determine the specific characteristics of the misalignment in the upper cervical spine. Through the course of care, the patient’s symptoms were alleviated, structural and functional improvements were evident through radiographic examination, and audiologic function improved.
CONCLUSION: The clinical progress documented in this report suggests that upper cervical manipulation may benefit patients who have tinnitus and hearing loss.
Dr. Brad’s Comments
In a conversation at my church a few months ago I overheard 3 people each discussing the vertigo and dizziness they suffered from. They talked about the multiple things they had tried to overcome it and finally they discussed how they had learned to “cope” with it.
This is not the way it is supposed to be – you are designed to be healthy. Too many people give up, they accept their “condition” and don’t do anything to correct it. Chiropractic removes the choking pressure on the spinal cord and lets the brain breath life to your body. It made me sad to hear the 3 people and their conversation. How many people do you know that suffer from vertigo and ringing in the ears needlessly?
One of Our Stories
Dear Dr. Brad,
When I met you I was feeling trapped in a vicious cycle of health problems. My damaged ears affected my balance and posture making walking and exercise difficult. This lack of exercise made blood sugar and blood pressure control impossible. My hopes for a healthy active retirement were pretty much gone. I felt tired, frustrated and strangely angry.
Gradually, with treatments and “exercise” (a family joke), my sense of balance returned and I could move around without fear of falling. As I became more active, I was able to get my blood sugar and blood pressure back in control. After a year, I am able to travel and enjoy the activities that I had looked forward to in retirement.
I am deeply grateful for your help in achieving this happiness.
