Cervicogenic dizziness
Dizziness or unsteadiness linked to dysfunction of the upper neck.
Overview
Cervicogenic dizziness is a sense of imbalance or unsteadiness associated with neck pain and upper-neck dysfunction. It is a diagnosis of exclusion once other causes are ruled out, and responds to neck treatment and balance retraining.
Symptoms
- Unsteadiness or light-headedness with neck symptoms
- Dizziness provoked by neck movement or posture
- Associated neck pain and stiffness
- Symptoms that ease as the neck improves
Causes
- Upper cervical joint and muscle dysfunction
- Following neck injury such as whiplash
- Altered neck sensory feedback
Treatment
- Neck mobility and strengthening
- Balance and sensorimotor retraining
- Manual therapy to the upper neck
- Reassurance and graded activity