What are the symptoms of cervicogenic dizziness?

What are the symptoms of cervicogenic dizziness is a common question we get as neck and vestibular health experts.

The cervical spine may be considered the cause of the dizziness when all other potential causes of dizziness are excluded.

The symptoms of cervicogenic dizziness can vary from person to person, but common signs and symptoms include:

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

The most common symptoms of cervicogenic dizziness

1. Imbalance:
   • Individuals with cervicogenic dizziness may experience a sensation of imbalance. This dizziness is often triggered or worsened by certain neck movements or positions.
2. Unsteadiness:
   • Individuals with cervicogenic dizziness may experience a sensation of unsteadiness. This dizziness is often triggered or worsened by certain neck movements or positions.
3. Disorientation:
   • Individuals with cervicogenic dizziness may experience a sensation of disorientation. This dizziness is often triggered or worsened by certain neck movements or positions.
4. Drunkenness:
   • Individuals with cervicogenic dizziness may experience a sensation of drunkenness. This dizziness is often triggered or worsened by certain neck movements or positions.
5. Lightheadedness:
   • Individuals with cervicogenic dizziness may experience a sensation of lightheadiness. This dizziness is often triggered or worsened by certain neck movements or positions.
6. Neck Pain:
   • Neck pain is a hallmark symptom of cervicogenic dizziness. The pain is usually located at the upper neck at the base of the skull but it can also be in other locations.
7. Limited Cervical Range of Motion:
   • Reduced ability to move the neck comfortably, especially when turning or tilting the head, is a common finding.  Looking up or turning the head usually reproduces symptoms.
8. Rarely Vertigo:
   • True room spinning sensation, such as vertigo, is a symptom of cervicogenic dizziness.
9. Headaches:
   • Headaches, particularly at the base of the skull (occipital region) or in the temples, can be a symptom.
10. Blurred Vision:
    • Blurred vision or difficulty focusing on objects can occur in some cases.

Conclusion for symptoms of cervicogenic dizziness

It’s important to note that the symptoms of cervicogenic dizziness can vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience additional symptoms or variations in the presentation.

There is a high likelihood that lightheadiness, unsteadiness and a sense of imbalance coinciding with neck pain is the major symptom.

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!