Jacksonville Chiropractor Explains the Difference Between Peripheral and Central Vertigo

Vertigo isn’t a condition itself—it’s a symptom. The spinning sensation, dizziness, and balance problems can have more than one cause. In fact, vertigo is generally classified into two main types: peripheral and central.

Understanding the difference can help you get the right care. At San Jose Chiropractic in Jacksonville, Dr. Thuraia Owais offers gentle, drug-free care that addresses both types of vertigo when they’re linked to problems in the upper cervical spine.

What Is Peripheral Vertigo?

Peripheral vertigo is the most common type and is caused by issues in the inner ear. Common conditions include:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): Triggered by small calcium crystals in the inner ear shifting out of position.

• Labyrinthitis: Inner ear inflammation, often from a viral infection.

• Meniere’s Disease: Excess fluid buildup in the inner ear, causing vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.

What Is Central Vertigo?

Central vertigo is related to problems in the central nervous system, particularly the brainstem or communication pathways between the brain and body. Causes can include:

• Migraines

• Stroke

• Tumors

• Multiple sclerosis

How the Neck Can Play a Role in Both Types of Vertigo

Misalignments in the top two bones of the neck (C1 and C2) can:

• Interfere with Eustachian tube function, potentially contributing to peripheral vertigo conditions like Meniere’s disease

• Disrupt blood flow to the ears and brain

• Affect brainstem function and nerve signals, which can lead to central vertigo symptoms, often connected with migraines

These misalignments can develop slowly over time—sometimes taking years before symptoms appear—and are often linked to past injuries or poor posture.

Relief Without Drugs or Surgery

Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses on gently correcting C1 and C2 misalignments. By restoring proper alignment, Dr. O helps improve nerve communication, blood flow, and overall balance system function.

Many patients in Jacksonville and Mandarin have found that this gentle, targeted approach helps reduce vertigo episodes and improves their quality of life.

If vertigo is interfering with your daily activities, you don’t have to just live with it. Call 904-683-4476 or request an appointment online to learn more about how upper cervical chiropractic care at San Jose Chiropractic can help you.