Relieving Vertigo and Dizziness: The Power of Acupuncture Treatment
- Dr. Margie Virgo D.TCM, R.Ac
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 16 minutes ago
Dizziness, vertigo, and conditions such as Ménière’s disease can be disturbing, disorienting, and significantly disruptive to daily life. Whether you're experiencing a brief sense of imbalance or intense spinning sensations (vertigo), these symptoms are often accompanied by fatigue, nausea, headaches, and anxiety.
Although conventional medicine frequently provides medications or vestibular rehabilitation, a growing number of individuals are turning to acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a natural, gentle, and effective way to find relief.
WHO Recognition of Acupuncture for Ménière’s Disease
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized acupuncture as a beneficial treatment for a wide range of conditions, including Ménière’s disease—a disorder of the inner ear that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
Based on clinical evidence reviewed in its 2003 report, WHO includes Ménière’s disease among the conditions for which acupuncture has shown positive therapeutic effects. This highlights acupuncture’s potential to reduce the frequency and intensity of vertigo episodes and improve overall quality of life through a natural and non-invasive approach.
Understanding Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness and vertigo are often grouped together, but they describe different sensations related to balance and spatial orientation:
Dizziness refers to a feeling of light-headedness, faintness, or unsteadiness. It may occur when standing up quickly and can include blurred vision or brief fainting episodes.
Vertigo is a more intense sensation of spinning or movement—either of yourself or your surroundings. It can last from minutes to hours and is often associated with nausea, vomiting, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Causes of Dizziness and Vertigo
From a Western Medicine Perspective
Vertigo and dizziness may arise from:
Inner ear disorders (e.g., BPPV, vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease)
Neck problems- disc problems, subluxations etc
Low blood pressure or anaemia
Migraines
Neurological conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease)
Cardiovascular issues affecting cerebral blood flow
Side effects of medications, alcohol, or other substances
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective
These symptoms often indicate internal imbalances, including:
Liver Yang rising, often triggered by stress or emotional strain
Phlegm and damp accumulation, obstructing the sensory orifices
Deficiencies in Qi, Blood, or Kidney Essence, affecting brain nourishment
Stagnation of Blood effecting the Channels & Collaterals
Lifestyle and Environmental Contributors
Additional factors that can trigger or worsen symptoms:
Motion sickness or sensitivity to movement
High levels of stress or anxiety
Hyperventilation disrupting oxygen/CO₂ balance
Hormonal fluctuations (e.g., PMS or menopause)
Ear infections or wax buildup
Dehydration or poor nutrition
Fatigue, overwork, or lack of sleep
Maintaining a position where you look up, down, or remain still for long durations can irritate the neck -such as being in front of a screen for too long, or painting.
How Acupuncture Helps
Acupuncture is a natural, holistic therapy that stimulates specific points along the body’s meridians to restore internal balance and support healing. For dizziness and vertigo, acupuncture may:
Improve circulation to the brain and inner ear
Regulate the nervous system and reduce stress and anxiety
Clear phlegm and dampness that obstruct inner ear function
Calm Liver Yang and strengthen Kidney and Spleen function
Reduce inflammation in the inner ear
Alleviate nausea and vomiting
Support treatment of root causes like anaemia or neurological conditions
Common Acupuncture Points Used
While treatment is always tailored to the individual, frequently used points include:
GB20 (Feng Chi): At the base of the skull – relieves vertigo and clears the senses
DU20 (Bai Hui): At the crown of the head – raises (or lowers) Yang and improves balance
PC6 (Nei Guan): On the inner wrist – calms nausea and stabilizes inner balance
ST40 (Fenglong): Along the leg – clears phlegm and damp
Kidney and Liver meridian points: For grounding and long-term support
What to Expect from Treatment
Treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment by an experienced acupuncturist, reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and possible triggers. Based on this evaluation, a tailored treatment plan may include:
Acupuncture sessions
Herbal medicine
Dietary guidance
Breathing exercises or Qi Gong
Lifestyle modifications
Many patients begin to notice improvements after just a few sessions. For chronic or severe conditions, a longer treatment plan may be recommended.
Activities to Support Recovery
Between sessions, support your healing process with the following:
Get adequate rest and sleep
Stay hydrated
Manage stress through deep breathing or Qi Gong
Incorporate gentle exercise like walking or yoga
Maintain a nutrient-rich diet with sufficient Vitamin D
Herbal supplements like Ginkgo Biloba may be helpful
Gentle at-home manoeuvres, check out 'Healthline’s -Natural Remedies to Treat Vertigo at Home
Clinical Research & Evidence
Modern research supports acupuncture’s effectiveness for dizziness and vertigo:
A 2020 study in Neurological Sciences found acupuncture significantly reduced dizziness severity in chronic vertigo patients.
A 2018 study in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice showed benefits for Ménière’s disease when combined with traditional rehab.
A 2021 meta-analysis in Medicine (Baltimore) found acupuncture more effective than drug therapy in improving quality of life for vertigo patients.
Conclusion
Acupuncture provides a valid and beneficial treatment option for dizziness and vertigo. Grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, supported by clinical evidence, and focused on stimulating the body’s own healing, acupuncture offers a holistic and personalised approach to restoring stability and improving quality of life.
📍Book a Consultation
Weston Creek Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine is situated in Rivett, Australian Capital Territory. Dr. Margie Virgo, an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist, has been practicing since 1997. 📞 0438 815 167 .
For more information or to Book Online go to; 🌐 www.westoncreekacupuncture.com.au
🌸 Restore your balance naturally.
**References;
Clinical research progress on acupuncture for the treatment of otogenic vertigo - PMC
Liang F, Wang X, Qiao H, et al. Acupuncture for vertigo: A systematic review. J Altern Complement Med. 2016;22(7):483-495.
Zhang WB, Wang WX, Xu AD, et al. Acupuncture for peripheral vestibular disorders: A systematic review. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;(11):CD008500.
Relation between vitamin D deficiency and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo | Scientific Reports
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