The Connection Between Dizziness, Chronic Back Pain, and Adrenal Fatigue

Dr. Cox here!

Do you get dizzy when you stand up quickly? 

When a patients’ lower back does not respond to my treatment, I often ask this question.  If they answer “yes”, the solution to their chronic problem may be the treatment of adrenal fatigue or adrenal insufficiency.

What is the connection?

The adrenal glands sit on top of the kidneys and are responsible for the production of many different hormones in the body, especially adrenaline. But they are also involved in blood sugar regulation, sex hormone production and the balancing of electrolytes such as potassium and sodium.  In today’s fast paced society, adrenal fatigue (or insufficiency) is relatively common and is often not properly diagnosed.  Adrenal fatigue can be caused by high stress jobs, long hours at work, difficult relationships, job loss issues, death in family, poor health, lack of sleep, environmental pollutants, diets high in refined carbohydrates, and other stress inducing situations.  In response to this stress, the adrenal glands increase their production of hormones as they work harder to respond to the situation. This is normal. However, when stress is consistent and unending, the adrenals get tired and can’t keep up with their normal functions.  Once the glands get tired, it takes more and more outside stimulants (i.e. caffeine) to get you going, a process which further depletes the adrenals. Once they are exhausted, the adrenals will give you warning signs they are not working correctly.

Here are some of the more common:

·         Chronic lower back pain.

·         Knee pain.

·         Dizziness when you stand up.

·         Craving for salt.

·         Fatigue

·         Bright lights bother your eyes (constant need for sunglasses)

In the body there is a relationship between the muscles and organs, and the adrenal glands are related to the Sartorius muscle.  This muscle attaches to the pelvis and runs down to just below the knee.  One of its primary actions is to stabilize the pelvis and knee.  With adrenal fatigue, the Sartorius muscle is weakened which can ultimately end up creating lower back (sacro-iliac) and knee pain. These types of patients get temporary relief with my care but never stabilize and “always” have to come back in. 

The solution for this condition can include adrenal supplementation, reduction in stressful inputs, a healthy diet, plenty of sleep, and exercise.  

Please mention this to us if you feel that you might be suffering from adrenal fatigue.  We would be happy to talk with you, evaluate you physically, provide adrenal supplementation, and discuss a change in diet and lifestyle if indicated!