Cervicogenic Dizziness

Cervicogenic dizziness is a type of dizziness that originates from problems in the neck (cervical spine) rather than the inner ear or brain. It is thought to occur when abnormal signals from the neck muscles, joints, or nerves interfere with the body’s balance system. People with cervicogenic dizziness often feel unsteady or disoriented, especially during or after neck movement.

This condition commonly appears alongside neck pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion, and symptoms often improve when the neck condition is treated.

Symptoms of Cervicogenic Dizziness

Common symptoms include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness (not usually spinning vertigo)

• A feeling of imbalance or unsteadiness

• Neck pain or stiffness

• Headaches, especially starting from the back of the head

• Limited neck movement

• Nausea associated with neck movement

• Difficulty concentrating or a “foggy” feeling

• Symptoms that worsen with head or neck motion

Symptoms may last from minutes to hours and often recur if the underlying neck problem persists.

Causes of Cervicogenic Dizziness

Cervicogenic dizziness is typically caused by conditions that affect the cervical spine, such as:

• Poor posture (e.g., prolonged phone or computer use)

• Neck muscle strain or tension

• Whiplash injury or neck trauma

• Cervical spine degeneration (arthritis, disc issues)

• Joint dysfunction in the upper cervical spine

• Inflammation or tightness in neck muscles

• Reduced blood flow or altered nerve signaling from the neck

These issues disrupt the neck’s proprioceptors, which help the brain understand head position and movement.

What Happens If Cervicogenic Dizziness Is Ignored?

If cervicogenic dizziness is left untreated, it may lead to:

• Worsening and more frequent dizziness episodes

• Chronic neck pain and stiffness

• Increased risk of falls due to balance problems

• Reduced quality of life and daily function

• Ongoing headaches or migraines

• Anxiety or fear of movement due to dizziness

• Postural problems becoming more severe over time

Early identification and proper management can help prevent long-term discomfort and complications.

We are a trusted chiropractic and physiotherapy centre specializing in non-surgical, evidence-based treatment for spine, joint, and muscle conditions. Our team provides customized care for back pain, slipped disc, sciatica, posture correction, and injury rehabilitation.

We focus on natural healing — without drugs or surgery — by addressing the root cause of pain, helping clients move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free. Please contact us if you wish to know more about Cervicogenic Dizziness and the treatments we offer.