What causes Cervicogenic Dysphagia?

Cervicogenic dysphagia is a condition characterized by difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) that is attributed to issues in the cervical spine or neck region.

This condition is typically caused by structural or functional abnormalities in the neck, throat, or cervical spine, which can affect the normal swallowing process.

Some common causes and contributing factors to cervicogenic dysphagia include:

1. Cervical Spine Abnormalities:
   • Problems with the cervical spine, such as cervical osteophytes (bone spurs), degenerative disc disease, cervical spondylosis, or cervical herniated discs, can compress or irritate the nearby structures responsible for swallowing.
   • This compression can disrupt the normal swallowing mechanism.
2. Cervical Muscular Disorders:
   • Conditions that affect the muscles in the neck, such as muscle weakness, spasticity, or muscle imbalances, can interfere with the coordinated movements required for swallowing.
3. Trauma:
   • A history of neck or throat trauma, including whiplash injuries, can lead to structural damage or inflammation in the cervical region, potentially causing dysphagia.
4. Inflammatory Conditions:
   • Inflammatory conditions in the cervical area, such as cervical radiculitis or esophagitis, can lead to discomfort and difficulty with swallowing.
5. Post-Surgical Complications:
   • Some surgical procedures involving the neck or cervical spine may result in complications that lead to cervicogenic dysphagia.
6. Neurological Disorders:
   • Certain neurological conditions, such as cervical dystonia or Parkinson’s disease, can affect the coordination of muscles involved in swallowing.
7. Anatomical Abnormalities:
   • Rarely, congenital or acquired anatomical abnormalities in the cervical area can contribute to difficulty with swallowing.
8. Poor Posture:
   • Poor neck posture can also contribute to cervicogenic dysphagia, as it can lead to misalignment and strain on the cervical structures.

It’s important to note that cervicogenic dysphagia is a relatively uncommon condition, and diagnosis typically involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, often a speech-language pathologist or a medical specialist, such as a neurologist or an otolaryngologist.

Treatment may vary depending on the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, medication, lifestyle modifications, or surgical interventions in some cases.

Medical professionals will determine the specific treatment approach based on the identified cause of the dysphagia, If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty swallowing, it is important to seek medical attention for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Treatment options for Cervicogenic Dysphagia

If you experience difficulty swallowing, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation to rule out any ENT, respiratory and cardiovascular pathologies. Our team will be happy to provide a thorough neck health examination once others causes have been ruled out.

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

We provide a comprehensive treatment approach through our Neck Alignment Program. This includes manual therapy and exercises to improve neck posture, improve sagittal positioning and promote proper stability. The primary goal of treatment is to address the underlying cervical spine issues that are giving you symptoms.

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