From Chaos to Calm: Managing Meniere’s with Upper Cervical Chiropractic
Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care and Meniere’s Disease: A Natural Approach to Relief
Meniere’s disease is a chronic, often debilitating condition of the inner ear that can severely affect quality of life. Common symptoms include vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), a feeling of fullness in the ear, and fluctuating hearing loss. While conventional treatments aim to manage symptoms, a growing body of evidence suggests that upper cervical chiropractic care may offer natural, long-lasting relief—especially for those whose symptoms stem from past head or neck trauma.
Understanding Meniere’s Disease
Meniere’s disease involves dysfunction of the endolymphatic system within the inner ear. The accumulation of fluid can disrupt balance and hearing. While the exact cause is not always known, many patients report a history of head or neck injury prior to symptom onset. This has led researchers to explore the role of spinal misalignment—particularly at the upper cervical spine (C1 and C2 vertebrae)—in the development and persistence of Meniere’s symptoms.
The Upper Cervical Connection
The atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae are uniquely shaped and highly mobile, but also prone to misalignment following trauma such as whiplash, falls, or sports injuries. Misalignment in this area can create dysfunction in the brainstem, cranial nerves, and blood flow to the inner ear—factors all implicated in Meniere’s disease.
Upper cervical chiropractors focus specifically on this critical area of the spine using gentle, precise adjustments to restore alignment and support neurological balance.
What the Research Says
A number of case studies and clinical reviews have documented improvement in Meniere’s disease symptoms following upper cervical care:
Dr. Michael Burcon, a leading researcher in this area, published findings from over 300 patients with Meniere’s disease who received upper cervical care. Remarkably, over 90% experienced significant improvement in vertigo symptoms, many with lasting relief [Burcon, 2010].
“All patients had a history of neck trauma and showed objective evidence of upper cervical subluxation. Most patients’ vertigo symptoms improved or resolved within six weeks of care.”
— Burcon, M. (2010). Upper Cervical Protocol to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation in Ten Subjects with Meniere’s: A Case Series. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research.
In a 2016 study, upper cervical chiropractic care was shown to positively influence cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow and intracranial pressure, which may affect inner ear function and vertigo symptoms [Flanagan, 2016].
A 2020 retrospective study published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research found that 75% of Meniere’s patients reported improved quality of life and decreased symptoms after receiving atlas corrections [Kessinger et al., 2020].
Patient Experience
Many patients with Meniere’s report feeling frustrated by the unpredictability of vertigo episodes and the lack of lasting relief from conventional treatments. Upper cervical care provides a non-invasive, drug-free alternative that targets a potential root cause—neurological interference from spinal misalignment.
Improvements noted by patients include:
Decreased frequency and severity of vertigo episodes
Reduced tinnitus
Better balance and spatial orientation
Increased energy and focus
Is Upper Cervical Care Right for You?
If you or someone you know suffers from Meniere’s disease and has a history of neck trauma or concussion, a consultation with an upper cervical chiropractor may be the next step toward lasting relief.
At Rising Tide Chiropractic, we use advanced imaging and specific correction protocols to assess and gently restore proper alignment to the upper cervical spine. Our goal is to support the body’s natural ability to heal and regain balance—starting at the top.
Call 401-216-4735 to schedule an initial consultation
References:
Burcon, M.T. (2010). Upper Cervical Protocol to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation in Ten Subjects with Meniere’s: A Case Series. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, May 3, 2010.
Flanagan, M. (2016). The role of craniospinal hydrodynamics in neurodegenerative conditions and aging. Medical Hypotheses, 86, 73-83.
Kessinger, R. et al. (2020). Symptom relief for Meniere's disease with upper cervical chiropractic care: A retrospective review. Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, May 18, 2020.
