Dizziness is a common and unsettling sensation, making a person feel off-balance or lightheaded. While many factors can contribute to dizziness, problems originating in the spine, particularly the neck, are sometimes a source. Understanding these connections clarifies a complex symptom and points to potential origins.
How Spine Issues Cause Dizziness
Problems within the cervical spine, or neck, can disrupt the body’s balance system. The vertebral arteries, which supply blood to the brainstem and cerebellum, pass through the cervical vertebrae. Compression or irritation of these arteries due to neck issues can reduce blood flow, potentially leading to sensations of dizziness or vertigo. This reduced circulation can interfere with the brain’s ability to process balance signals accurately.
The neck also contains proprioceptors, which provide information about body position and movement. Dysfunction in these neck proprioceptors, often due to injury or degeneration, can send abnormal signals to the brain. These incorrect signals conflict with information from the eyes and inner ear, resulting in a confused sense of spatial orientation and ultimately, dizziness. The brainstem and cerebellum, which integrate sensory input for balance control, become affected by these altered signals from the neck.
Spine Conditions That Lead to Dizziness
Several specific spine-related conditions are linked to dizziness. Cervicogenic dizziness originates from neck dysfunction, often due to altered sensory input from the cervical spine. This condition is characterized by dizziness that accompanies neck pain or stiffness. Another common cause is cervical spondylosis, a degenerative condition affecting the neck’s discs and joints, which can lead to nerve compression or reduced vertebral artery flow contributing to dizziness.
Whiplash-associated disorders, resulting from sudden neck movements common in car accidents, can also induce dizziness. The rapid strain on neck tissues can damage proprioceptors and soft tissues, disrupting normal sensory input. Cervical instability, where the vertebrae move more than they should, can similarly irritate nerves or blood vessels, leading to balance disturbances.
Identifying Spine-Related Dizziness
Dizziness stemming from spine problems often presents with distinct accompanying symptoms. Individuals frequently experience neck pain and stiffness, with reduced ability to move the head and neck freely. Headaches, particularly those localized at the back of the head, are also commonly reported alongside the dizziness. These symptoms often worsen with specific neck movements or prolonged awkward head positions.
Pain extending into the shoulders or arms might also be present, indicating potential nerve involvement. Some individuals may notice visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or difficulty focusing, which can be linked to the altered sensory input affecting visual processing. Recognizing these co-occurring symptoms can help differentiate spine-related dizziness from other causes.
Seeking Diagnosis and Care
If dizziness is persistent or accompanied by neck symptoms, consult a healthcare professional. A general practitioner can provide an initial assessment and refer to specialists such as a neurologist, otolaryngologist, or physical therapist. The diagnostic process typically involves a thorough physical examination, focusing on neck range of motion, posture, and neurological function. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI scans of the cervical spine, can help identify structural issues like disc degeneration or nerve compression.
Specialized tests, including balance assessments or vestibular function tests, may also be conducted to rule out inner ear causes or confirm a cervical origin. Management and treatment options vary based on the specific diagnosis. Physical therapy is a common approach, involving specific neck exercises to improve strength and flexibility, manual therapy techniques to restore joint movement, and balance retraining exercises. Medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or muscle relaxants, can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, if conservative treatments are not sufficient, a referral to a specialist for further evaluation or intervention may be considered.
References
1. American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery. “Dizziness and Balance Disorders.” Accessed July 29, 2025.
2. University of California San Francisco Health. “Cervicogenic Dizziness.” Accessed July 29, 2025.