What is Cervicogenic Vertigo? Symptoms, causes, and prevention tips

The recent celebrity diagnosis of Saket Gokhale with Cervicogenic Vertigo put the spotlight once more on a rather neglected condition. While it is well known that vertigo in most cases is associated with inner ear pathology or neurological conditions, cervicogenic vertigo differs because it is caused by cervical spine disorders, specifically those of the upper neck.


What is Cervicogenic Vertigo?


Cervicogenic vertigo is dizziness due to the cervical (neck) area. It tends to develop as a result of dysfunction or abnormality of the joints of the neck, muscles, or vertebrae and usually results from posture, whiplash injury, or degenerative changes, and chronic strain.


Key Symptoms


A cervicogenic vertigo patient tends to complain of:

• Spinning or feelings of loss of balance
• Pain or stiffness of the neck
• Headaches, particularly located at the back of the head
• Disturbance of vision or lack of concentration
• Dizziness due to movement of the neck

This type of vertigo is unique as compared to other types, as it is most often associated with restricted motion of the neck and may persist for between a few seconds to some minutes.


Causes & Risk Factors


Cervicogenic vertigo is most often associated with:

Abnormal posture, particularly in people who sit for hours at desks or on computer equipment

Cervical arthritis or spondylosis of the neck

Whiplash due to car accidents

Cervical spine muscle strain or trauma

Chronic neck strain, usually brought about by stress or poor ergonomics

Preventive and Management Tips


1. Posture Correction: Maintain an upright posture when sitting, particularly when looking at screens. Do not slouch.
2. Position computer screens at eye level and give chairs adequate back and neck support.
3. Maintain shoulders and the neck stretched and strengthened.
Daily muscle stretching and strengthening of muscles in the shoulder region as well as the neck region can contribute to greater flexibility and less strain.
4. Physiotherapy: Specific physiotherapy will assist in controlling the muscle imbalances and rectifying the cervical alignment.
5. Early Evaluation: If you have recurrent dizziness associated with neck pain, consult an ENT or spine doctor.

Saket Gokhale's case illustrates the significance of cervicogenic vertigo as a real medical condition that can be treated. By early diagnosis and adhering to a multidisciplinary regimen with ENT, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes, the patients can achieve substantial improvement and sidestep complications at a later age.

(Dr. Murarji Ghadge, Senior ENT Surgeon and Sleep Disorder Specialist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune)