CCervicogenic vertigo is a type of dizziness caused by a condition believed to be sourced from issues in the neck’s cervical spine. If you live/work in the greater Norristown, PA area, Dr. James Stein, a Board Certified Upper Cervical Specialist at Lifeline Chiropractic can help manage the Cervicogenic vertigo condition and its symptoms.
What is Cervicogenic Vertigo?
Cervicogenic vertigo’s dizziness is created by a false imbalance (an overwhelming sense of spinning) sourced from sensory input problems caused by cervical spine/neck dysfunction.
While the condition’s symptoms vary, they typically include the following -
- Neck pain/stiffness, usually on one side
- Imbalance/unsteadiness
- Headaches, which tend to be at the base of the skull
- Visual disturbances, which may include an inability to focus or blurry vision
And dizziness can be triggered or made worse when moving your neck in certain positions.
Cervicogenic Vertigo’s Contributing Factors
Although its exact cause remains unknown, cervicogenic vertigo is also believed to include a problematic vestibular system, which maintains your spatial orientation, coordination, and balance. Other factors include-
Neck Trauma
Neck injury or trauma (i.e., from a car accident or a fall) can disturb the proper functioning of the neck’s structure.
Cervical Spine Disorders
Conditions impacting the cervical spine’s vertebrae may compress nerves. Examples include cervical spondylosis, cervical arthritis, or disc herniation.
A Muscle Imbalance
Neck muscle imbalances can impact sensory input in the neck, which disrupts proper vestibular system functioning.
Poor Posture
Prolonged poor head and neck posture can cause neck muscles and joints to strain, which may contribute to the cause of cervicogenic vertigo.
Cervicogenic Vertigo Treatment Options
A chiropractor will evaluate and diagnose your condition and offer these potential noninvasive treatment options -
Spinal Manipulation and Adjustment
Spinal manipulation/adjustments are used to restore your spine's normal/natural mobility. For cervicogenic vertigo, these adjustments may be focused on the cervical spine to relieve the symptoms. These adjustments also help reduce inflamed tissue, increase your range of motion, and address other vertigo symptoms.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Chiropractors offer complementary therapies to lessen muscle tension/restrictions and improve overall well-being. These may include –
- Massage
- Myofascial release
- Trigger point therapy
Therapeutic/Rehabilitation Exercises
A professional chiropractor may also prescribe exercises and stretching maneuvers that target the structure/muscles in and around the cervical spine. These will-
- Improve flexibility, posture, and strength
- Enhance sensory input in the area
- Stabilize the neck region
Contact a Leading Norristown, PA Chiropractor Today
Cervicogenic vertigo can be challenging to diagnose due to its overlapping symptoms. For more information on our cervicogenic vertigo treatments and other services, contact Dr. Stein at Lifeline Chiropractor at 610-630-9800 or online.