VR Motion Sickness: What It Is and How to Cope

January 22, 2023

vr motion sickness, upper cervical

Virtual reality (VR) has been popular over the years. This technology is used for cinemas, video games, and amusement park rides. The VR technology innovation paves the way for more creative execution, which can bring more fun to those who love these things. However, it's not for everyone, not for the faint of stomach… or those prone to motion sickness.

Some patients who seek upper cervical care also report incidents of motion sickness while using VR technology. Some of these include:

  • Cold sweats
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Queasiness

If you experience motion sickness when using virtual reality, you are not alone. Reports of motion sickness are a common problem with virtual reality (VR). But what exactly is causing it? We will discuss this in further detail below.

 

VR Motion Sickness Explained

Whether it's in a game or amusement ride or you're watching a movie utilizing VR technology, your eyes usually register the movements they see on the VR headset. These can vary from comets whizzing or riding on a galloping unicorn. Your inner ears can also sense the virtual movement happening all around you. But despite the movements generated virtually, your muscles and joints' body sense that you're keeping still or steady and not engaged in any motion or movement. Your eyes, inner ears, and body can simultaneously send these mixed messages to your brain. Your brain then becomes confused and disoriented due to varying reports from different parts, which can cause motion sickness. It can bring the same sensation you experience in a moving car, wherein motion sickness is also common.

 

Home remedies for motion sickness

If you experience VR motion sickness, be prepared to nurse it for a few hours. Below are some preventive home remedies you can use to help put a stop to your symptoms:

Drowsy-formula antihistamines

It's not uncommon for first-generation antihistamines that cross the blood-brain barrier to address motion sickness. Some of these antihistamine medicines contain anticholinergic properties which can help reduce usual motion sickness accompanying symptoms, including vomiting and nausea. Ask a doctor about the best type of antihistamine that can help you before you start taking anything.

Fresh air

For many people who experience motion sickness, stepping out to get some fresh, cool air can help alleviate motion sickness. The accurate explanation for this remains unknown, but usually, people report feeling better after getting some fresh air. 

Aromatherapy

Essential oils have been gaining popularity in dealing with symptoms of motion sickness. Scents like lavender and ginger can help with your overall nausea and dizziness. You can use these oils through a room diffuser or drop a few on your wrists and breathe in the scent.

Ginger

This popular ingredient is believed to help reduce nausea and help a patient calm down. You can try taking ginger supplements, chewing ginger candy, or drinking ginger tea when motion sickness strikes. vr motion sickness, upper cervical

Misalignment in Cervical Spine Can Influence Motion Sickness 

Your upper cervical spine connects directly to the head and neck muscles, which are crucial in controlling balance and coordinating eye movements. These bones protect your brainstem, support your head's weight, and help keep your head upright too. They also support your brainstem.When there is a misalignment in this area of the spine due to trauma or poor posture, for example, it can lead to improper functioning of your brainstem, which can contribute to the onset of motion sickness or dizzying spells. Fortunately, upper cervical chiropractic adjustments can help by realigning the atlas and axis so you can remove pressure on your nervous system and vestibular system.

 

Upper Cervical Chiropractic Adjustments: Start Fixing Them Today 

Upper cervical chiropractic adjustments involve applying gentle pressure to the top two vertebrae in your neck so that they return to their proper position. When these bones move back into alignment, it helps restore communication between the brain and body, reducing nausea or dizziness associated with motion sickness episodes. These incidents are completely safe and non-invasive and have helped thousands of patients from all over. You too can experience the benefits of upper cervical chiropractic adjustments firsthand. Look for a board-certified upper cervical chiropractic doctor near you to get started with your care for motion sickness or any other condition that can stem from an upper cervical misalignment.

 

Find An Upper Cervical Doctor in Your Areato schedule a consultation today.

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