Vertigo Relief: Atlas Orthogonal vs Epley Maneuver—What Works Best for You

If November errands, holiday decorating, or flights out of the Lower Mainland are leaving you dizzy, you’re not alone. Vertigo can derail Christmas plans and make even simple tasks feel unsafe. At Kilian Chiropractic in Aldergrove BC, we help patients understand the root cause and choose a conservative plan—whether that’s the Epley maneuver for BPPV or gentle Upper Cervical care such as Atlas Orthogonal to address neck-related dizziness.

Two Common Vertigo Patterns in the Fraser Valley

Not all dizziness is the same. The two patterns we hear about most:

• BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo): Brief, spinning vertigo triggered by rolling in bed, looking up at decorations, or bending to wrap gifts. Caused by tiny crystals moving in the inner ear.
• Cervicogenic dizziness: A sense of imbalance or lightheadedness linked to neck stiffness, poor posture, headaches, or after a fender bender on icy roads. Often worsens by sustained head positions rather than quick position changes.

Epley Maneuver: First-Line for BPPV

The Epley maneuver repositions misplaced inner-ear crystals. When BPPV is correctly identified (often via a Dix-Hallpike test), Epley is a go-to, evidence-supported technique that can bring rapid relief. Many patients benefit from clinician-guided Epley to ensure the correct canal is treated and to learn safe home progressions. Air travel, looking up at lights, or sleeping on one side can trigger BPPV—timely assessment helps you get back to your plans faster.

Atlas Orthogonal: Gentle Upper Cervical Care

Atlas Orthogonal (AO) is a precise, instrument-assisted approach focusing on the atlas (C1). Subtle misalignments at the upper neck can influence head posture, muscle tone, and proprioception—factors that may contribute to neck-related dizziness or persistent postural strain. AO uses a gentle correction without twisting or cracking, followed by reassessment. For Fraser Valley residents who prefer conservative care, AO can be part of a plan to improve comfort and balance, especially when symptoms pair with neck pain, headaches, or jaw tension.

How do I know if I need Epley or chiropractic care for vertigo?

If your dizziness is brief, spinning, and triggered by rolling in bed or looking up, Epley is often the best first step. If you feel woozy or imbalanced alongside neck pain, stiffness, or headaches—especially after prolonged sitting or minor collisions—an Upper Cervical evaluation may help. Some patients need both: Epley for inner-ear crystals and chiropractic care to address neck mechanics that keep symptoms recurring. A proper assessment clarifies the path.

Which Option Works Best? A Practical Guide

Choose Epley first when:

• Vertigo is brief, spinning, and position-triggered (rolling, looking up)
• You’ve had BPPV before and symptoms feel the same
• You feel ear fullness or nausea with quick head movements

Consider Atlas Orthogonal when:

• Dizziness coexists with neck pain, headaches, jaw tension, or poor posture
• Symptoms worsen with sustained head positions (driving, screens)
• You’ve had a recent strain, minor car accident, or whiplash

Combine and co-manage when:

• Epley helps but symptoms return with desk work or long drives
• You need posture and corrective exercises to stabilize progress
• Massage therapy would ease muscle guarding around the neck and shoulders

Holiday-Friendly Tips to Reduce Dizziness Flare-Ups

• Use a step stool when hanging lights; avoid prolonged looking up
• Turn your whole body, not just your head, when carrying bins
• Take microbreaks during shopping and gift wrapping to reset posture
• Stay hydrated and keep screens at eye level while traveling
• Sleep with a supportive pillow that keeps your neck neutral

Care in Aldergrove: What to Expect at Kilian Chiropractic

We start with a clear history and movement testing to distinguish BPPV from neck-driven dizziness. When appropriate, we’ll refer for vestibular therapy or coordinate with your family physician. In-clinic, your plan may include:

• Atlas Orthogonal for precise, gentle upper cervical alignment
• Chiropractic adjustments for other regions contributing to postural strain
• Posture and corrective exercises to retrain balance and neck stability
• Registered Massage Therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation
• Health and wellness coaching for travel, workstations, and holiday tasks

Steady Through the Season

Don’t let dizziness cancel your winter plans. For a clear assessment and a personalized plan—whether that includes Epley guidance, Upper Cervical care, or a combined approach—book your November visit with Kilian Chiropractic in Aldergrove. Call our clinic or schedule online for an appointment tailored to your needs, so you can enjoy safer decorating, smoother travel, and a steadier holiday season.