My Neck Hurts and I Feel Dizzy
The combination of neck pain and dizziness is called cervicogenic dizziness. Overtension in neck muscles can affect balance sense, or compression of neck blood vessels can cause it.
Characteristics of Cervicogenic Dizziness
- Dizziness occurs when turning or tilting the neck
- Feeling unsteady or floating rather than spinning sensation
- Always accompanied by neck/shoulder pain
- ENT and neurology exams show no abnormality
Why Do Neck Problems Cause Dizziness?
Proprioceptive Disruption
Neck muscles contain many nerves responsible for position sense. When muscles are overtense, this sense is disrupted, causing dizziness.
Reduced Blood Flow
Blood vessels to the back of the head pass through the neck. Severe tension or postural problems can reduce blood flow, causing dizziness.
These Symptoms Require Immediate Medical Attention
- Sudden severe dizziness and headache
- Slurred speech or weakness on one side
- Vision disturbances
- Severe dizziness with vomiting
Circulation Therapy Resolves Cervicogenic Dizziness
- Circulation HD: Normalize proprioception by releasing neck muscle tension
- Circulation PT: Prevent recurrence through cervical stabilization exercises