Cervical Vertigo: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Cervical vertigo is a condition where dizziness or vertigo is linked to issues in the cervical spine, or neck. This type of vertigo can be triggered by various factors related to neck problems, making it important to understand its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

People with cervical vertigo often experience a spinning sensation, dizziness, or imbalance, which may worsen with specific neck movements. The condition is typically caused by poor posture, neck injury, or degenerative conditions affecting the cervical spine. Understanding the relationship between the neck and balance is essential for effectively diagnosing and managing cervical vertigo.

Symptoms of Cervical Vertigo

Cervical vertigo is characterized by dizziness or a spinning sensation triggered by head or neck movement. Common symptoms include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Ear pain or ringing
• Neck pain
• Loss of balance while walking, sitting, or standing
• Weakness
• Dizziness

Causes of Cervical Vertigo

Cervical vertigo is primarily caused by issues related to the neck, such as:

Atherosclerosis

Blockages in the arteries of the neck may lead to injury in the area that could cause vertigo. This could be due to atherosclerosis, which is the thickening of the artery walls.

Neck Injuries

Neck pain is frequently associated with people suffering from cervical vertigo. Cervical vertigo can be caused by a variety of factors, most of which are caused by a traumatic injury to the neck. Whiplash from a car accident, for example, can cause damage to the head and neck, resulting in cervical vertigo.

Osteoarthritis

The most common type of arthritis affecting millions of people worldwide is osteoarthritis. It happens when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones worsens. The hands, knees, hips, and spine joints are the most commonly affected by the disorder. Advanced osteoarthritis in the spine can cause the vertebrae in the neck to wear down, extra pressuring the nerves, arteries, and the spinal cord itself.

A slipped disk

Slipped discs are more common in the lower back, but they can occur anywhere along the spine. When the softer center of a spinal disc pushes out through a crack in the spine, it is called a slipped disc or herniated disc. Sometimes, it may push into a nerve or artery, causing symptoms such as cervical vertigo.

Poor posture

Cervical vertigo may also be caused by poor posture. The cervical spine may compress over time because of poor sitting posture or issues like "text neck," in which a person frequently bends their neck to look at electronic devices or books.

Treatment Options for Cervical Vertigo

Physical Therapy

Exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist can help improve neck muscle strength, flexibility, and posture, reducing symptoms of cervical vertigo.

Medications

Pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cervical vertigo.

Neck Braces or Collars

These devices may be recommended to provide support to the neck and limit movement, especially in cases of severe cervical spine instability.

Lifestyle Modifications

Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms, such as prolonged sitting or repetitive neck movements, can help manage cervical vertigo.

Manual Therapy

Techniques such as massage, spinal manipulation, or mobilization performed by a chiropractor or osteopath may help relieve muscle tension and improve neck function.

Postural Correction

Learning and practicing proper posture techniques can reduce strain on the neck and improve overall spinal alignment, potentially reducing cervical vertigo symptoms.

Surgical Intervention

In rare cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or there is significant cervical spine instability, surgery may be considered to address underlying structural issues.

What Are the Risk Factors for Cervical Vertigo?

Several factors can cause cervical vertigo (dizziness from neck problems):

• Neck Injuries
• Bad Posture
• Neck Conditions
• Tight or Weak Neck Muscles
• Blood Flow Issues
• AgingPrevious Dizziness
• Other Health Conditions
• Dehydration or TirednessStress

How to Prevent Cervical Vertigo?

• Keep Good Posture: Sit and stand with your head straight.
• Exercise: Strengthen neck muscles to avoid strain.
• Take Breaks: Move and stretch regularly.
• Protect Your Neck: Avoid injuries and use seat belts.
• Sleep Right: Use a good pillow for neck support.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water.
• Reduce Stress: Relax to avoid neck tension.
• See a Doctor: Get help for neck pain early.
• Avoid Heavy Lifting: Don’t strain your neck.

These tips can help prevent dizziness caused by neck problems.

Conclusion

Cervical vertigo can significantly impact daily life, but understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help manage the condition effectively. If you experience symptoms of cervical vertigo, seeking professional medical advice is essential to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions