At The Myéline Clinic, we often encounter patients who experience dizziness not just as a symptom but as a debilitating everyday obstacle. Cervicogenic vertigo is a lesser-known, yet significant cause of dizziness that originates from the cervical spine—the neck region. Some patients with cervicogenic vertigo may notice that the dizziness they are experiencing may have already been accompanied by episodes of headaches and/or neck pain. This condition can profoundly affect your quality of life, making even simple tasks seem daunting.
What is Cervicogenic Vertigo?
Cervicogenic vertigo is a form of dizziness that stems from disorders or joint dysfunctions within the cervical spine. Unlike other types of vertigo that are related to the inner ear or brain, cervicogenic vertigo is directly linked to neck movements and positions. It's often triggered by certain head positions or neck movements that disturb the joints or nerves in the cervical spine.
Symptoms of Cervicogenic Vertigo
The symptoms of cervicogenic vertigo can vary widely, but they typically include:
Dizziness or a spinning sensation that is primarily triggered or worsened by neck movements.
Neck pain and stiffness, which may extend to headaches.
A sense of imbalance or unsteadiness that increases with movement.
Nausea, which is often associated with the severity of dizziness.
Causes and Risk Factors
Cervicogenic vertigo may result from several conditions affecting the cervical spine, including:
Whiplash and other neck injuries that disrupt the cervical joints.
Osteoarthritis in the neck, which affects the joints' normal movement.
Herniated discs, which can put pressure on the nerves emanating from the cervical region.
Risk factors include engaging in activities or occupations that strain the neck, previous injuries to the neck, or degenerative changes due to ageing.
Chiropractic Treatment for Cervicogenic Vertigo
At The Myéline Clinic, our approach to treating cervicogenic vertigo involves a holistic assessment of the cervical spine followed by a personalized treatment plan, which may include:
Manual Adjustments: Gentle manipulations to restore normal function and movement of the neck joints.
Mobilizations: Passive and/or active movements to restore normal function and movement of the neck joints.
Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques aimed at reducing muscle tension and improving muscle function around the neck.
Rehabilitative Exercises: Custom exercises designed to strengthen the neck muscles and improve posture.
How Effective is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care is particularly effective for cervicogenic vertigo because it addresses the root cause of the issue—any cervical spine joint dysfunction. By restoring proper spinal alignment and function, many patients experience significant relief from dizziness and associated symptoms.
If you're battling with dizziness and neck pain, cervicogenic vertigo might be the culprit. At The Myéline Clinic, we are dedicated to diagnosing and effectively treating this condition, helping you return to a comfortable, active lifestyle without the constraints of vertigo. Don’t let dizziness control your life; contact us today to explore how chiropractic care can help you regain your balance and wellbeing.
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