How to Know if You Have Cervicogenic Dizziness

Cervicogenic dizziness is a condition where dizziness arises from problems in the neck. This type of dizziness can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed because its symptoms are similar to those of other common conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) or vision-related issues. In this post, we'll explore what cervicogenic dizziness is, how to recognize its symptoms, and why it might be the cause of your dizziness.

Understanding Cervicogenic Dizziness

Cervicogenic dizziness is typically caused by cervical spine problems, such as neck injuries, degenerative disc disease, or poor posture. The neck is home to a network of nerves and blood vessels that contribute to your sense of balance. When these structures are compromised, it can lead to dizziness and a sense of unsteadiness.

Symptoms of Cervicogenic Dizziness

Identifying cervicogenic dizziness involves recognizing specific symptoms that distinguish it from other forms of dizziness:

• Neck Pain: A common symptom accompanying cervicogenic dizziness is persistent or recurrent neck pain. The pain may be localized to one side or spread to the shoulders and upper back.
• Head Movement Sensitivity: Dizziness that worsens with certain head movements or positions often points to a cervical origin.
• Headaches: Frequent headaches, especially those that start at the back of the head and radiate forward, can be a sign of cervicogenic dizziness.
• Balance Problems: Difficulty maintaining balance, feeling unsteady on your feet, or a sensation that the room is spinning may occur.
• Visual Disturbances: Although less common, some people experience blurry vision or difficulty focusing when dealing with cervicogenic dizziness.

Why Cervicogenic Dizziness is Often Misdiagnosed

Many people attribute their dizziness to vision problems or BPPV. Here's why cervicogenic dizziness is frequently overlooked:

• Similar Symptoms to BPPV: BPPV is a common inner ear condition causing vertigo. Its symptoms, like spinning sensations triggered by head movements, are similar to those of cervicogenic dizziness, leading to misdiagnosis.
• Vision-Related Misinterpretation: Vision problems, such as eye strain or uncorrected vision issues, can cause dizziness. People often assume these issues are the root cause without considering a neck-related origin.
• Overlapping Conditions: It's possible to have both BPPV and cervicogenic dizziness, making it challenging to identify the primary cause without thorough medical evaluation.

How to Confirm Cervicogenic Dizziness

If you suspect cervicogenic dizziness, besides the symptoms mentioned above... it's mores about ruling OUT other issues:

1. See a vestibular therapist to rule out BPPV with Dix-Hallpike Maneuver.
2. If you're nervous, get a brain scan to rule out any underlying pathology.
3. See and ENT to make sure no sinus, ear or other issues is causing dizziness.
4. See an eye doctor to rule out vision changes..
5. Check you medication for dizziness side effects.

Once you've ruled out most of these items PLUS have the symptoms mentioned earlier in the article, we are starting to strongly consider crevice-genic dizziness.

Managing Cervicogenic Dizziness

Once diagnosed, effective management strategies can significantly improve your quality of life:

• Cervical and Jaw treatments: Targeted exercises and stretches can balance muscles, improve posture, and alleviate dizziness.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation (not recommended as a long term solution)
• Lifestyle Changes: Neuroplasticity re-training, Ergonomic adjustments, stress management techniques, and maintaining good posture can prevent recurrence.

Take Action Today

If you've been experiencing persistent dizziness and suspect it might be cervicogenic, don't wait. Early (or not so early) intervention can make a significant difference in managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. Our online 'Head, Neck & Jaw Revitalization Program' program offers comprehensive support, including expert advice, progressive exercise plans, and educational resources to help you understand and manage cervicogenic dizziness.   By recognizing the unique signs of cervicogenic dizziness and seeking appropriate care, you can take control of your symptoms and get back to feeling your best.

Share this article with anyone who might be struggling with unexplained dizziness. Let's help everyone understand the possible causes and take action towards better health.