Are there any medications for treating cervicogenic dizziness?

Healthcare providers typically do not use medications as the primary treatment for cervicogenic dizziness, but they may prescribe them in certain cases to manage specific symptoms or underlying conditions that contribute to the dizziness.

The choice of medication and its use would depend on the individual’s unique circumstances and the underlying factors contributing to cervicogenic dizziness.

We discuss this in more detail in our professional books and course, but here are some highlights for you.

Here are some ways healthcare providers may consider medications:

1. Pain Management:
   • If cervicogenic dizziness is associated with significant neck pain, healthcare providers may use over-the-counter pain relievers (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs) or prescribe pain medications to alleviate discomfort.
2. Muscle Relaxants:
   • Muscle tension or spasms in the neck and shoulder muscles can contribute to cervicogenic dizziness.
   • Healthcare providers may prescribe muscle relaxant medications to reduce muscle tightness and discomfort.
3. Vestibular Medications:
   • In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications that affect the vestibular system (the balance and spatial orientation system) to help manage dizziness.
   • These medications might be considered if other treatments prove ineffective or if there is a significant vestibular component to the dizziness.
4. Migraine Medications:
   • If cervicogenic dizziness is associated with migraine headaches, medications commonly used to prevent or manage migraines, such as beta-blockers or anticonvulsants, may be considered.
5. Anti-Anxiety Medications:
   • In cases where anxiety or stress exacerbates cervicogenic dizziness, healthcare providers may prescribe anti-anxiety medications to help manage these emotional factors.

Conclusion

Manual therapy and exercise is the gold standard for treating cervicogenic dizziness. However, it’s essential to note that healthcare providers often use medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

The goal of treatment for cervicogenic dizziness is to address the underlying neck issues.  This will improve neck function, and reduce dizziness and associated symptoms.

Any use of medication should be under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare provider who can assess your specific situation and tailor the treatment plan to your needs.

Additionally, the effectiveness of medications in managing cervicogenic dizziness can vary from person to person, so it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare team to find the most appropriate and effective approach for you.

Treatment options for cervicogenic dizziness

Specialized physical therapy treatment can assist in alleviating musculoskeletal elements and improve spinal alignment contributing to cervicogenic dizziness. A systematic approach of orthopedic, vestibular and sensorimotor re-training is usually necessary to alleviate symptoms.

At PhysioFit of NC, we have the expert team in both vestibular and cervical spine conditions to help you to the fullest.

We provide a comprehensive treatment approach through our Cervicogenic Dizziness Relief Program.  This includes manual therapy and exercises to improve neck posture and mobility. The primary goal of treatment is to address the underlying cervical spine issues and vestibular dysfunction causing cervicogenic dizziness.

If you are a professional and looking for training options, check out our diagnosis and treatment courses on Cervicogenic Dizziness!

Don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can help you!