Does Cervical Spondylosis Cause Dizziness?
October 19, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Cervical spondylosis, also known as cervical osteoarthritis, is a condition that affects the neck and is characterized by the degeneration of the spinal discs and the bones in the neck (cervical spine). While cervical spondylosis primarily leads to neck pain, stiffness, and other symptoms related to the neck, it can, in some cases, lead to dizziness. The dizziness associated with cervical spondylosis is typically caused by the compression or irritation of the cervical spinal nerves or blood vessels in the neck.
Here are some ways cervical spondylosis can potentially lead to dizziness:
- Cervical Radiculopathy: When the degeneration of the cervical spine compresses or irritates the spinal nerves in the neck, it can lead to a condition known as cervical radiculopathy. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms and shoulders, and in some cases, it may also cause dizziness.
- Cervical Myelopathy: In more severe cases of cervical spondylosis, compression of the spinal cord in the neck, known as cervical myelopathy, can occur. This can result in a range of neurological symptoms, including dizziness or unsteadiness when walking.
- Vertebral Artery Compression: The cervical spine contains vertebral arteries that supply blood to the brain. Compression or irritation of these arteries due to cervical spondylosis can disrupt blood flow to the brain, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness.
It’s important to note that dizziness can have many potential causes, and not all cases of dizziness are related to cervical spondylosis. Other common causes of dizziness include inner ear problems, low blood pressure, medications, and various other medical conditions.
If you experience dizziness along with neck pain or other symptoms related to cervical spondylosis, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. Management of cervical spondylosis typically involves physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention if conservative treatments do not provide relief or if there is significant nerve or spinal cord compression.