Yoga for Balance
WHAT IS BALANCE? Our sense of balance is a complex interaction between the inner ear, vision, and somatosensory systems (physical cues that tell the brain where the body is in space). Those suffering from vestibular
what is Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (cam)?
Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is a concept that has engendered considerable controversy, because it implies an either/or choice between traditional western medicine and other, less scientifically established treatments. We can, however, surmount this controversy very quickly by considering these treatments as complementary rather than an alternative to traditional medicine; that is, to be used alongside traditional medicine. In fact, for decades there has been a spectrum of treatments in use that complement the pharmaceutical and surgical treatments of western medicine. These include healthful nutrition and diet (consider diabetes and heart disease), physical and mental exercise (consider obesity and dementia), and many stress-reduction techniques, such as yoga, meditation, counseling, and support groups (consider all our hectic, stress-laden lives). For balance disorders, in particular, which can have multiple underlying causes and be severely impairing, incorporating complementary treatments to build a healthy lifestyle is essential to maximize the benefits of medical treatments prescribed by our physicians.
It is important to consider that any treatment, traditional or complementary, must have its utility established through rigorously established evidence. This requirement holds true for everything from surgery, to “nutriceuticals,” to acupuncture, to counseling and psychotherapy. The problem is in the hawking of untested and unproved remedies, which unfortunately tends to be more in the realm of complementary than in traditional medicine. Without scientifically developed evidence to support a given treatment, be it a new surgical technique or a new herbal remedy, that treatment does not merit our consideration. It may indeed have a placebo effect: Belief in the treatment’s efficacy makes a person feel better, and placebo effects can be powerful. But that does not mean it will help heal the underlying condition, or that it will have a lasting beneficial effect. So, we must be careful about what we promote as complementary treatments. The topics presented below have sufficient research into their efficacy to be included in our discussion.
Chiropractic Treatment of Vestibular Disorders
There are a lot of people who may think a chiropractor will automatically “snap the neck” of every patient they see, including patients suffering from dizziness. Spinal manipulation, whether performed by a chiropractor, medical doctor, osteopath or physiotherapist may or may not be an appropriate intervention for a patient. There are particular cases where spinal manipulation should be avoided and these “absolute contraindications” and “red flag symptoms” are well known. Chiropractors, like other health professionals, are trained to select the most appropriate treatment for a patient, and may use alternative types of manual therapy when spinal manipulation is not indicated.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are increasingly popular as people look for alternatives or natural remedies for their symptoms. Surprisingly, the pure oils extracted from plants have more than relaxing or invigorating aromatic properties. In pure form, they have been used for centuries as natural therapy for a mental, emotional, and physical health. Oils can be uplifting, invigorating and activating; waking up your mind and energizing your body to think, move, and create. Other oils have the opposite effect: they provide calm, relaxation, restfulness, stress relief, or sleep. Depending on the origin of the extract, the effects of natural, pure, and carefully harvested essential oils are being studied and promoted for a number of health benefits, including anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Tai Chi for Balance
Originating in China centuries ago, Tai Chi (a shortened version of the more traditional name tai chi chuan) is a martial art characterized by gracefully flowing movements and postures. Extensive medical literature, as well as the direct experience of physical therapists and other clinicians, supports Tai Chi as an excellent complementary therapy to vestibular rehabilitation.
Natural Supplements for Vestibular Disorders
Patients with vestibular disorders may choose to incorporate supplements into their treatment plan, either to support their prescription medications or as non-pharmaceutical alternatives that can help reduce their symptoms and improve their overall wellness. Many natural supplements are backed by scientific research and have been found to be helpful in decreasing vestibular migraine days, easing tinnitus, lowering inflammation, or reducing anxiety. While these treatments may be “natural,” it does not mean they are safe for everyone. Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment plan, as some supplements may interact with prescription medications.
Can CBD Help Vestibular Disorders?
CBD is a naturally occurring chemical compound in the hemp plant. Although more studies are needed, there is evidence to suggest that CBD could be a helpful treatment for vestibular symptoms such as tinnitus, sleep disturbance, vertigo, balance challenges, and anxiety. CBD has also been shown to help manage inflammation, pain, stress, mood disorders, and also has protective and preventive properties that can improve overall health and wellbeing.
Body work
Body work, such as massage therapy, can have physical and emotional benefits. Regular sessions have been shown to improve mood, and can relieve stress and anxiety. Body work can calm your nervous system and help you relax. Your heartbeat slows, your breathing deepens, and your stress hormone levels are lowered as endorphins are released. Physical benefits include reduced muscle tension, improved circulation, and stimulation of the lymphatic system. Some body work can also decrease inflammatory processes.
Nutrition
Stress & Relaxation
Exercise
How to Find a Practitioner
When selecting any healthcare provider - traditional, complementary or alternative - it is important to check their credentials. Many professional associations exist with minimum standards of qualification. Check to see if they have a website, and read online reviews. You may also want to give them a call and request a pre-consultation interview.