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Cervicogenic Dizziness

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About Cervicogenic Dizziness

What Is Cervicogenic Dizziness ?

Cervicogenic Dizziness is a condition characterized by dizziness or vertigo that arises from dysfunction or injury in the neck (cervical) region of the spine. It is believed to result from disturbances in the proprioceptive signals (sensory information related to body position and movement) that are transmitted from the neck to the brain. Cervicogenic dizziness can be caused by various factors, including neck muscle strain, cervical spine joint dysfunction, whiplash injuries, or degenerative changes in the cervical spine. The dizziness experienced is typically provoked or exacerbated by specific neck movements or postures.

Cervicogenic Dizziness Diagnosis

How Do We Diagnose Cervicogenic Dizziness ?

 Diagnosing Cervicogenic Dizziness can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other vestibular and neurological disorders. Healthcare professionals, such as headache practitioners, typically rely on a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, a thorough clinical examination, and the exclusion of other potential causes of dizziness. Diagnostic criteria for cervicogenic dizziness may include the presence of neck pain or stiffness, abnormal neck movements, reproduction of dizziness with specific neck movements or postures, and temporary relief of symptoms with interventions targeting the cervical spine.

Cervicogenic Dizziness Symptoms

Dizziness

Sensation of dizziness or unsteadiness that is associated with neck movements or postures.

A feeling of imbalance, lightheadedness, or a spinning sensation.

Headache

Headaches, shoulder or arm pain, and limitations in neck range of motion

Neck pain or stiffness

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Treating Cervicogenic Dizziness With The Watson Headache® Approach

Cervicogenic Dizziness Treatment

The treatment of Cervicogenic Dizziness aims to address the underlying dysfunction in the cervical spine and alleviate symptoms. The specific treatment approach may vary depending on the individual’s condition and needs. Some common treatment strategies include:

Manual therapy: Techniques such as mobilization or manipulation performed by a physiotherapist trained in the Watson Headache Approach can help restore normal movement and function in the cervical spine, relieving symptoms.

Exercise therapy: Specific exercises that target the neck and surrounding muscles can improve strength, flexibility, and coordination, promoting better stability and reducing dizziness symptoms.

Postural and ergonomic modifications: Adjustments to posture and ergonomic factors, such as proper workstation setup and posture awareness during daily activities, can help alleviate strain on the neck and reduce dizziness episodes.

Medications: In some cases, medications such as muscle relaxants, pain relievers, or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to manage neck pain or associated symptoms. Medication options are determined on an individual basis.

Lifestyle modifications: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, stress management techniques, and maintaining good sleep hygiene, can contribute to overall well-being and symptom management.

It’s important to work closely with healthcare professionals experienced in managing cervicogenic dizziness to develop an individualized treatment plan. The prognosis is generally positive, with many individuals experiencing improvement in symptoms with appropriate interventions. However, it may take time and patience to find the most effective combination of treatments for each individual.

 

For further reading about Cervicogenic Dizziness read our blog here

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