Acupuncture Offers Drug-Free Relief of Vertigo Dizziness and Imbalance

Acupuncture as a Treatment for Vertigo

Vertigo is a sensation of spinning dizziness that can be debilitating and disrupt normal daily activities. It is often caused by problems with the inner ear or central nervous system that control balance. While medications are commonly used to treat vertigo, some people find limited relief from prescription drugs or experience side effects that make their dizziness worse. In recent years, acupuncture has emerged as an effective complementary therapy to treat vertigo and balance problems.

How Acupuncture May Help With Vertigo

Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine and has been practiced for thousands of years. Fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body to stimulate nerve endings and blood flow. This is thought to activate natural healing processes and restore proper energy flow throughout the body. Acupuncture may help treat vertigo in several ways, including:

• Improving blood circulation to the inner ear - This enhances fluid and nutrient delivery to maintain healthy ear structures.
• Reducing inflammation around the ear - Acupuncture can reduce inflammatory responses that may cause pressure and abnormalities in the ear.
• Rebalancing the autonomic nervous system - Acupuncture may modulate the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems to ease dizziness symptoms.
• Activating vestibular system reflexes - Stimulation of certain acupuncture points may recalibrate faulty signals from the balance system in the inner ear.
• Releasing muscular tension in the neck - Acupuncture can reduce spasms and tension that may contribute to vertigo.
• Alleviating anxiety and nausea - Acupuncture promotes relaxation and reduces nausea associated with dizziness.

Acupuncture Points for Treating Vertigo

The acupuncturist will thoroughly assess the patients condition and determine the main meridians or energy pathways that need balancing treatment. Common acupuncture points used to treat vertigo include:

• Inner Ear Points - Located around the ear, these points may improve inner ear circulation and activation of balance reflexes. Examples are GB2, SJ21, SI19, VB2.
• Nausea Points - Points such as PC6 and ST36 help reduce nausea associated with dizziness.
• Head Points - Scalp points as well as facial points around the eyes, forehead and neck may be stimulated to alleviate vertigo headaches or migraines.
• Distant Points - Acupuncture points on the legs and arms indirectly stimulate affected areas and balance the central nervous system. For instance, LI4 and SP6 are often used.

What to Expect During Acupuncture Treatment

Prior to the first acupuncture session, your practitioner will discuss your medical history, vertigo symptoms and health goals. They will also perform a physical exam and diagnostic tests. The initial appointment usually takes one hour. Follow up sessions are 30 minutes to an hour.

Acupuncture needles are very thin and smooth, so there is minimal discomfort upon insertion. However, you may experience slight tingling, dull ache, or electric pulse sensation when the needles are stimulated. Most people find the treatments very relaxing. You simply lie face up or sit comfortably while the acupuncturist inserts anywhere from 5-20 needles along meridian pathways.

Treatments last 15-30 minutes, during which time you can relax, listen to music, or even take a nap. A full course of acupuncture for vertigo may require 10-15 treatments spaced out 2-3 times per week. Effects are cumulative, leading to longer term relief of balance problems.

Is Acupuncture Effective for Vertigo?

A growing body of research suggests acupuncture can significantly help reduce vertigo symptoms. Some major studies demonstrating positive effects include:

• A 2020 systematic review found acupuncture improved vertigo symptoms, with effects lasting for several months after treatment. Benefits were similar to standard medications.
• A randomized trial in 2018 concluded acupuncture was safe and effective at treating vertigo in the elderly. Just 8 sessions produced significant improvements.
• A study in 2017 showed acupuncture reduced dizziness severity by 50% in patients with chronic vertigo who had failed drug therapy. Benefits lasted one year.
• Another study found a combination of acupuncture and motion sickness exercises as effective as anti-vertigo drugs for treating dizziness, with fewer side effects.

In clinical practice, acupuncturists report excellent results using acupuncture to address the root causes of vertigo in patients of all ages. It is considered an excellent complement to balance therapy, medications, and lifestyle adjustments as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Are There Any Side Effects?

The risks associated with acupuncture are extremely low when performed by a licensed professional. Side effects can include:

• Minor bleeding or bruising where needles are inserted
• Mild pain, swelling or soreness at needle sites
• Rare cases of infections or organ punctures
• Lightheadedness or fainting during or after treatment

Always verify your acupuncturist is experienced and uses sterile disposable needles. Let them know if you have any bleeding disorders or take blood thinners so they can take extra precautions.

Is Acupuncture Right for Me?

Acupuncture is considered very safe and can benefit most people with vertigo. However, check with your doctor first if you have:

• A pacemaker or defibrillator
• Pregnancy
• Thrombocytopenia or hemophilia
• Damaged heart valves
• Immune disorders

Your medical history will determine if adjustments need to be made for your condition or medications. Acupuncture can be used along with most treatments for vertigo.

Integrating Acupuncture Into Your Vertigo Treatment Plan

While acupuncture can be very effective at reducing or even eliminating vertigo, it is most successful when combined with other therapies:

• Balance exercises - Special maneuvers prescribed by physical therapists can retrain the brain and ears to resolve signals that create dizziness.
• Medications - Drugs like antihistamines, anticholinergics, and benzodiazepines help control vertigo in the short term while acupuncture addresses underlying imbalances.
• Dietary changes - Avoiding foods that trigger allergies or inflammation may minimize episodes of vertigo.
• Stress management - Lowering stress through yoga, meditation, or counseling amplifies the positive effects of acupuncture.
• Night guards - Wearing dental night guards can ease vertigo caused by grinding or jaw disorders.
• Vestibular rehabilitation - Specialized therapists retrain the balance system using visualization exercises.

An experienced acupuncturist can work closely with your healthcare team to find the right combination approach. They can also advise adjunctive Chinese herbs that synergize with acupuncture. With persistence and proper care, you can successfully manage and overcome vertigo.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acupuncture for Vertigo

How long do acupuncture treatments take to work?

Some patients experience an immediate improvement in symptoms after the first 1-3 treatments. However, it usually takes a full course of 8-15 treatments to provide lasting relief from chronic vertigo. Effects accumulate so continuous treatments are key.

Does acupuncture help with anxiety related to vertigo?

Yes, acupuncture is very effective at easing feelings of anxiety, panic, and stress associated with vertigo episodes. Acupuncture calms the central nervous system activity in the amygdala area of the brain that is responsible for the fight-or-flight response.

Can I stop taking vertigo medications if acupuncture works?

Never stop prescribed medications until consulting your doctor. Acupuncture may allow you to reduce some medications over time. But sudden withdrawal can cause severe recurrence of symptoms. Gradually lowering doses under medical supervision is safest.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.