What Is Cervical Vertigo? Signs, Causes, and Best Treatment Options

Have you ever felt dizzy or off-balance after turning your head or moving your neck? This could be more than just momentary light-headedness—it may be a sign of cervical vertigo, also known as cervicogenic dizziness. This condition is often triggered by dysfunction in the cervical spine, where compressed nerves or restricted blood flow can interfere with the brain’s balance centres. Whether caused by poor posture, neck injuries, or underlying issues like cervical spondylosis, understanding the root causes and cervical vertigo symptoms is key to finding lasting relief. Early intervention through the right cervical vertigo treatment plan can help reduce dizziness, restore mobility, and improve overall quality of life.

Causes for Cervical Vertigo

The origin or causal factors of cervical vertigo are still not entirely clear. However, research suggests that blockage or tearing of arteries in the neck disrupts blood flow to the inner ear and brain stem, leading to dizziness. In addition, several other underlying conditions can lead to these symptoms. 

Cervical Spine Disorders

Advanced neck osteoarthritis, also known as cervical spondylosis, is a prominent disorder that leads to this condition. Wear and tear of the vertebrae and neck discs add excessive pressure on the spine, blocking blood flow and causing dizziness. Similarly, a herniated or slipped disk can contribute to the same. Further, if the spinal canal is too small, as in the case of spinal stenosis, it can lead to pinched or damaged nerves that also contribute to the symptoms of cervical vertigo.

Injuries or Trauma to the Neck

Accidents, injuries, or other forms of whiplash could damage your head and neck, resulting in dizziness. In addition to head and neck injuries caused by accidents, sports injuries, or complications after surgery can also impact the brainstem and arteries, leading to cervical vertigo.

Poor Posture

While you may pay attention to disorders or accidents that cause cervical vertigo, it is also essential to recognize daily practices that may increase this condition's risk. For instance, poor sitting posture or issues like a text neck can compress the cervical spine and add pressure to the arteries. If you spend long hours staring at your screen and bending your neck, you may develop neck pain and vertigo. 

Symptoms of Cervical Vertigo

Dizziness may be the most recognizable symptom of cervical vertigo, but did you know several other signs may indicate this condition? 

Dizziness or Spinning Sensation

Feeling faint, light-headed, heavy-headed, or unsteady is commonly associated with this condition. Since the nerves and arteries around the neck are damaged, you may experience a spinning sensation and frequently lose balance. 

Neck Pain or Stiffness

Spending long hours in front of a screen or bending your neck as you type without taking frequent breaks can compress the nerves leading to stiffness and pain. Our experts recommend being mindful of your posture and making the necessary lifestyle changes to fix the same. 

Headaches

Migraines, ringing pain in your head, or pain in the front of your skull may signify cervical vertigo. Based on the underlying condition, these symptoms can get aggravated by intense light or sound. 

Nausea or Vomiting

The sudden impact and compression of the spinal nerves can lead to nausea or vomiting. Although these symptoms can be controlled with treatment, they may frequently occur due to the intensity of the damage. 

Visual Disturbances

Damage to the nerves in the neck and head can also lead to visual disturbances, along with the other symptoms of cervical vertigo. You may experience rapid eye movement, have difficulty maintaining gaze, have problems with reading, or feel a sense of visual motion even if you are standing still. 

Difficulty in Maintaining Balance

Since dizziness is a prominent sign of cervical vertigo, it would also be accompanied by issues associated with balance. The compressed nerves prevent blood flow to the inner ear (responsible for maintaining balance). Hence, you may show problems with motor coordination, as a result of which you can experience strange or difficult movements when you walk.

Cervical Vertigo vs Other Types of Vertigo

Cervical vertigo, or cervicogenic dizziness, is caused by neck issues such as poor posture, injuries, or spinal degeneration. It’s typically triggered by neck movement and is often accompanied by neck pain, stiffness, or headaches.

In contrast, conditions like BPPV or Meniere’s disease originate in the inner ear and present symptoms like spinning sensations, hearing loss, tinnitus, or nausea. These types of vertigo are linked to changes in head position or inner ear fluid imbalance.

Unlike inner ear-related vertigo, cervical vertigo doesn’t usually involve hearing symptoms. Its root cause lies in disrupted signals from the cervical spine affecting balance, making accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment.

Risk Factors for Cervical Vertigo

Several lifestyle and health-related factors can increase the risk of developing cervical vertigo or cervicogenic dizziness:

• Poor posture from prolonged screen time or phone use
• Neck injuries due to whiplash, accidents, or sports trauma
• Cervical spine disorders like spondylosis or stenosis
• Sedentary lifestyle leading to weakened neck and shoulder muscles
• Chronic stress or tension, which can stiffen neck muscles
• Degenerative conditions such as arthritis or disc herniation

Identifying these risks early can help in preventing or managing vertigo-related symptoms more effectively.

Diagnosis of Cervical Vertigo

Diagnosing cervical vertigo involves ruling out other causes of dizziness and checking for cervical spine issues.

Key steps include:

• Symptom review – Dizziness triggered by neck movement, neck pain, and balance issues
• Physical exam – Assessing posture, range of motion, and nerve function
• Imaging tests – MRI or X-ray to detect cervical stenosis, disc problems, or spinal misalignment
• Vestibular tests – To rule out inner ear issues
• Doppler ultrasound – To check blood flow in the neck arteries

A combination of these helps confirm cervicogenic vertigo and plan the right treatment.

Treatments for Cervical Vertigo

We understand that these symptoms of cervical vertigo can be overwhelming. Hence, our experts recommend treatment strategies that help you cope with the signs and improve your overall well-being.

Medications

Based on the severity of symptoms, your physician may prescribe muscle relaxants, pain relievers, and other drugs that help alleviate stiffness, pain, and dizziness. In most cases, combinations of drugs are used to manage the symptoms and the underlying condition. However, medication by itself is not enough to manage the symptoms, which is why other treatment modalities are also recommended. 

Surgery

Surgery is recommended if physical therapy and medications are not effectively aiding in recovery. Research suggests that anterior cervical surgery and percutaneous laser disc decompression can alleviate symptoms of cervical vertigo. However, continuing with alternative treatment approaches is necessary to achieve a complete recovery after surgery. 

Home Remedies

Different methods or techniques can be used to cope with this condition in the comfort of your home. The well-known process of alternating between hot and cold compressions helps reduce pain and tightness in the neck. Further, staying hydrated and using essential oils like peppermint, ginger, lavender, and lemon can reduce nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Finally, taking a break and allowing your body to rest and recuperate is essential to recovery. 

Physiotherapy Treatment for Cervical Vertigo

Along with medication and home care, seeking help from a trained physiotherapist is highly recommended. Physiotherapy offers targeted solutions for managing cervical vertigo symptoms through a combination of techniques such as:

• Manual Therapy – Mobilises stiff joints and improves cervical spine alignment.
• Vestibular Rehabilitation – Helps retrain your balance system and reduce dizziness.
• Stretching & Strengthening Exercises – Builds neck strength and reduces muscular stress.
• Posture Correction – Corrects neck alignment and prevents symptom recurrence.
• Balance Training – Restores coordination and stability.
• Electrotherapy or Dry Needling – Used selectively to relieve muscle tension and pain.

In some cases, combining physiotherapy with chiropractic care may further support spinal health and reduce nerve-related dizziness.

How to Prevent Cervical Vertigo

Preventing cervical vertigo involves simple but consistent changes in posture, lifestyle, and daily habits:

• Maintain good posture, especially during screen time or work
• Take regular breaks to stretch your neck and shoulders
• Use ergonomic chairs and workstations to support spinal alignment
• Avoid sudden or jerky neck movements
• Stay physically active with neck and upper back strengthening exercises
• Manage stress, as tension often leads to muscle stiffness
• Stay hydrated and sleep with proper neck support

When to See a Doctor for Cervical Vertigo

You should consult a doctor if:

• Dizziness worsens with neck movement or persists for days
• You experience neck pain, stiffness, or frequent headaches
• Balance issues are interfering with daily life
• Symptoms appear after an injury or trauma to the neck
• You have vision problems, nausea, or ringing in the ears
• Home remedies and rest don’t improve your condition

These could signal underlying conditions needing expert care. A timely medical evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate cervical vertigo treatment to prevent long-term complications.

Physiotattva's Approach to Cervical Vertigo Treatment

At Physiotattva, the non-invasive treatment techniques and qualified experts help deliver customized care that meets your needs. For conditions like cervical vertigo, seeking specialized care is necessary. With the latest treatment modalities, including electrotherapy, aqua therapy, vestibular rehabilitation, tissue mobilization, and more, we can help you effectively cope with the distressing symptoms of this condition. In addition to this, our services are not limited to pain relief. We also aim to educate you on everyday practices that provide long-term benefits. 

At Physiotattva physiotherapy clinics in Bangalore and Hyderabad, you receive personalised care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring effective results and comfort throughout your journey to recovery. 

Don’t wait to start your recovery! Get in touch with Physiotattva for more details! Contact us at +91 89510 47001.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the first signs of cervical vertigo?

The first signs of cervical vertigo typically include dizziness or a spinning sensation triggered by neck movement. Early symptoms may also involve neck stiffness, headaches, balance problems, and visual disturbances. These signs often follow neck strain, injury, or poor posture.

Can spinal problems cause vertigo?

Yes, certain spinal issues- especially in the cervical spine- can cause vertigo. This condition, known as cervical vertigo or cervicogenic dizziness, occurs when spinal misalignment, disc issues, or neck injuries disrupt blood flow or nerve signals related to balance. It’s often linked to poor posture, cervical spondylosis, or whiplash.

Is cervical vertigo curable?

While not always permanently curable, cervical vertigo is highly manageable. A combination of physiotherapy, posture correction, medication, and lifestyle changes can relieve symptoms and improve long-term quality of life.

What are the treatment options for cervical vertigo?

Several treatment options for cervical vertigo include vestibular rehabilitation, medications, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and surgery. In addition to this, simple home remedies that can help you manage these distressing symptoms are also recommended by our experts.

Can physical therapy help with cervical vertigo?

Physiotherapy techniques, including stretching and balance exercises, play an important role in coping with cervical vertigo. Further, vestibular rehabilitation that encompasses exercises like eye movements and neck movements also helps reduce issues with balance and dizziness. 

How is cervical vertigo diagnosed?

Since the symptoms of cervical vertigo are shared with other conditions, certain tests or scans are necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Your physician may recommend an MRI scan, spine x-ray, vertebral doppler ultrasound, angiography, or other tests to detect the damaged nerves contributing to this condition.

How long does cervical vertigo last?

The duration varies based on the cause and treatment. Some people experience episodes for a few minutes, while others may have symptoms lasting days or weeks. Early cervical vertigo treatment and physiotherapy can significantly reduce the frequency and severity.