Chiropractic adjustments effectively reduce dizziness, balance problems and neck pain, according to investigators at Cleveland Chiropractic College in Overland Park, Kansas.

The study tracked 19 patients, age 40 or older, who underwent 8 weeks of chiropractic care. “The Dizziness Handicap Inventory was the primary outcome measurement, with the Short Form Berg Balance Scale (SF-BBS) and the Neck Disability Index used as secondary outcome measurements.”

Findings showed “a median Dizziness Handicap Inventory change score of +7 points was calculated for those dizziness patients, with 3 patients improving by at least 18 points, indicating a clinically meaningful change. Seven of the 15 patients who performed the SF-BBS attained at least a 4-point improvement with an effect size of 1.2. A median Neck Disability Index change score of +1 was calculated for those patients with neck pain. Twelve minor adverse reactions were reported by 8 patients, with 3 of those reactions lasting longer than 24 hours.”

The study concluded that “a large effect size was calculated for the SF-BBS. Most patients demonstrated improved balance, and some showed reduced dizziness and neck pain.”

Journal of Chiropractic Medicine – December 2009;156-64.
www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/15563707