Can Neck Issues Cause Problems With Your Ears?

What are Ear Problems?

Ear problem is an umbrella term for many different health issues affecting the ears. Ear aches, tinnitus, or hearing loss may fall under the umbrella of ear problems. These issues can be very painful and cause a host of problems, and in more serious cases, tinnitus or hearing loss can create barriers to communication with others. When that happens, it can have a terrible impact on a person’s ability to work or function in their normal daily lives. 

There are many different causes and treatments for ear problems. One cause that is often overlooked is a misalignment of the upper cervical spine. Thankfully, this root cause has a safe, drug-free, non-invasive treatment readily available.

Signs and Symptoms of Ear Problems

Symptoms of ear problems can vary greatly from person to person, depending on the nature of the problem. Some common symptoms people experience from ear issues include feeling like the ear is full, some pain, or noises heard deep inside the ear. These noises may come and go, or be constant, but they can drown out external sounds and become quite irritating. 

People with ear problems may experience problems with coordination, dizziness, or vertigo. This sense of imbalance can also bring about headaches and nausea. 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Ear Problems

Most people don’t consider that their ear problems may stem from the vertebrae in their necks, but this is a common issue. The upper cervical spine, which begins at the base of the skull just below the brain stem, is in close proximity to nerve clusters and tiny tubes that lead to the inner ear. 

These vertebrae are in a vulnerable place, and can easily be knocked out of alignment due to a jolt of the head, fall, sports injury, or minor fender bender. When this happens, it can cause inflammation of the nerves and surrounding tissue, compressing the tubes and nerves that run to the ear. This can block the flow of nerve signals or fluids, disrupting the ear’s healthy functions. 

How Our Treatment Works for Ear Problems

If a misalignment of the upper cervical spine is the root cause of ear problems, then realignment can help alleviate symptoms, allow the ears to function normally, and trigger the body’s natural healing processes. Dr. Elizabeth Hoefer of Well Connected Chiropractic is a specialist in treating the upper cervical spine. 

Dr. Hoefer is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, which focuses on the upper cervical spine. Starting with an examination using advanced 3D digital diagnostic tools, the doctor will be able to calculate and pinpoint exact misalignments. This makes adjustments much more precise and gentle, especially suited to each patient’s unique anatomy. 

These precise calculations allow the doctor to use avoid the traditional snapping and twisting of the neck and instead allow her to use minimal pressure to gently coax the vertebrae back into correct alignment. 

Dr. Hoefer services patients in Orange County, including Anaheim, Rancho Santa Margarita, Dana Point, San Clemente, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, and Santa Ana.