Upper cervical spine dysfunction and dizziness

Abstract

Although various causes of dizziness have been identified, many patients suffer from dizziness of unknown etiology and continue to visit hospitals to resolve their symptoms. Problems that occur in the ligaments or muscles of the upper cervical spine can cause confusion in proprioception. These changes can convey misinformation to the vestibular nucleus, resulting in abnormal reactions that can lead to cervicogenic dizziness (CGD). Though CGD remains controversial, it should be considered while diagnosing patients with dizziness. Understanding CGD can help create treatment strategies for them. This article suggested a relationship between the structure and function of the upper cervical spine and dizziness, and presented evaluations and treatments for the same.

Vojta Approach Affects Neck Stability and Static Balance in Sitting Position of Children With Hypotonia

“…Neck stability refers to the action of the deep neck flexor muscle, the antigravity flexor muscle that controls the head movement [ 11 ]. The deep neck flexor muscles have a positive effect on the correct alignment of the neck and the balance of the trunk and neck and play a role in providing neck stability during movement [ 12 , 13 ]. They are attached directly to the cervical spine and joints and play an important role in the postural control of the cervical spine and each segment stability [ 14 ].…”

“…They are attached directly to the cervical spine and joints and play an important role in the postural control of the cervical spine and each segment stability [ 14 ]. Weak deep neck flexor muscle can lead to cervical spine instability [ 12 ]. This problem causes the forward head posture (FHP), which affects balance due to incorrect afferent input from the neck muscles [ 15 ].…”

Cervicogenic Dizziness Associated With Craniocervical Instability: A Case Report

“…Various neck problems such as post whiplash injury, muscular fatigue, or cervical spondylosis can compromise this proprioceptive system and result in CGD [ 14 ]. Other postulated mechanisms responsible for producing the feeling of disequilibrium include compression of the vertebrobasilar artery, irritation of the cervical sympathetic nervous system, and aberrant pain signals from the upper cervical spine [ 15 , 16 ].…”

The effect of mind-body exercise on cervical spine mobility of people with neck discomfort: A systemic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

“…The harm to the body that neck discomfort causes does not appear within a short period [6]. If neck discomfort is not resolved, it can cause dizziness [7], nausea [8], irritability [9], shoulder and neck pain [10], and other symptoms. Long-term maintenance of this state is detrimental to physical health and affects the mobility of the entire cervical spine [11].…”