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Dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis.
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Cervical osteochondrosis dizziness is a condition in which the patient feels rotational or intermittent dizziness, which can be caused by cervical spine problems such as osteochondrosis. Cervical osteochondrosis is a degenerative disease of the cervical spine characterized by wear and changes in the intervertebral discs and joints.
Cervical osteochondrosis dizziness can occur for the following reasons:
- Vascular compression: Supporting tissues in the cervical spine, such as intervertebral discs and joints, can compress nearby blood vessels and nerves. This can lead to a disruption in the blood supply to the brain, which can cause dizziness.
- Changes in head position: Moving the neck or head changes the position of the cervical vertebrae and joints, which can cause dizziness in some patients.
- Reflex responses: The body may try to compensate for the pain and impairment associated with cervical osteochondrosis through reflex responses, which can cause dizziness.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis dizziness can range from mild to severe and may include a feeling of spinning, loss of balance, unsteadiness, nausea and vomiting. Dizziness may occur with head movements or in certain body positions.
Treatment for cervical osteochondrosis dizziness depends on its cause and severity. Your doctor may recommend conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications to relieve pain and inflammation, and lifestyle and posture changes. In some cases, surgery may be required to correct structural problems in the cervical spine. If you have dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis, be sure to consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Causes of the dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis.
Cervical osteochondrosis dizziness (cervical spine dizziness) can be caused by several factors and mechanisms related to changes in the cervical spine. Some of the main causes of cervical osteochondrosis dizziness include:
- Compression of blood vessels and nerves: Osteochondrosis can lead to degenerative changes in the cervical spine, such as disc protrusions or osteophytes (bony growths). These changes can compress blood vessels or nerves that pass through the cervical spine. Compression of blood vessels can impair blood flow to the brain, which can cause dizziness. Compression of nerves can affect sensory signals from the cervical level of the spine to the brain and back, which can also cause dizziness.
- Changes in head position: With cervical osteochondrosis, changes in the cervical spine can make neck movements less flexible and painful. This can affect the brain's ability to process information about the position of the head in space, which can cause dizziness when the head position changes.
- Vestibular disorders: Osteochondrosis can affect the vestibular system, which controls balance and coordination of movement. Pathologic changes in the cervical spine can throw off the balance of this system, causing dizziness.
- Muscle Spasms: The pain and muscle spasms that can accompany cervical osteochondrosis can also affect sensory information and balance, which can lead to dizziness.
- Excluding other causes: It is important to note that dizziness can have many causes including other medical conditions such as vascular disorders, vestibular disorders, migraines and others. Therefore, if dizziness is present, it is important to have a comprehensive examination and consultation with a physician for an accurate diagnosis and prescription of appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of the dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis.
Cervical osteochondrosis dizziness can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms, which can vary depending on the severity and area of damage to the cervical spine. Here are some of the possible symptoms associated with cervical osteochondrosis dizziness:
- Dizzinessor spinning sensation: This is the main symptom felt by the patient. The dizziness may be rotational (spinning sensation) or intermittent (feeling unstable).
- Neck pain: Pain or discomfort in the cervical spine may accompany dizziness. The pain may be localized or spread to the head, shoulders, and arms.
- Feeling weakness or numbness: Some patients may feel weakness or numbness in the arms or shoulders. This may be due to compression of nerve roots in the cervical spine.
- Increased symptoms with neck movement: Dizziness and related symptoms may increase with turning, bending, or other neck movements.
- Tinnitus(tinnitus): Some patients may experience tinnitus, such as noise or ringing in the ears.
- Loss of balance: Dizziness may be accompanied by a feeling of loss of balance or unsteadiness when walking.
- Changes in vision: Some patients may experience blurred vision or other changes in vision during episodes of vertigo.
- Nausea and vomiting: In rare cases, dizziness may cause nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can be temporary or permanent. If you have symptoms associated with dizziness and suspect it may be related to cervical osteochondrosis, be sure to consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Cervical osteochondrosis can be a manageable condition and symptoms can be relieved with proper treatment.
The duration of dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis can vary depending on many factors, including the severity of the condition, the presence of complications, the effectiveness of treatment, and the individual characteristics of each patient. Dizziness can be temporary or become chronic, and it can be a short-term episode or last for minutes, hours, days, weeks, or even months.
It is important to note that cervical osteochondrosis, which can cause dizziness, is usually a chronic condition. Treatment is aimed at alleviating the symptoms, but does not always eliminate them completely. Therefore, managing dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis may require a long-term approach to treatment and physical rehabilitation.
If you have cervical osteochondrosis dizziness or suspect you have this condition, it is important to see a doctor to diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment. Your doctor will be able to assess the severity of your condition and recommend the best treatment plan, which may include medication, physical therapy, and other measures.
Psychosomatics
Cervical osteochondrosis and dizziness can have psychosomatic aspects, which means that there is a relationship between physical symptoms and a person's psychological state. Psychosomatic means that psychological factors can affect physical health and cause or exacerbate physical symptoms. In the case of cervical osteochondrosis and vertigo, psychosomatic factors may play the following role:
- Stressand Anxiety: Psychological stress and anxiety can increase symptoms of dizziness and cervical osteochondrosis pain. Stress can cause muscle tension, which can worsen cervical spine conditions.
- AutonomicNervous System: Psychological factors can affect the autonomic nervous system, which controls functions such as heart rate, breathing, and vascular tone. Dysregulation of this system can contribute to dizziness and other symptoms.
- Ongoingstress: Long-term stress and anxiety can affect your overall health and immune system, which can make your body more vulnerable to a variety of medical problems.
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Persistent pain syndrome: Cervical osteochondrosis pain syndrome can cause depression and anxiety in the patient, which in turn can worsen physical symptoms and dizziness.
It is important to realize that psychosomatic factors are not necessarily the underlying cause of cervical osteochondrosis and vertigo, but they can influence the course and worsening of symptoms. Physicians consider psychological aspects when diagnosing and treating patients with these symptoms.
Diagnostics of the dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis.
Diagnosing dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis usually involves the following steps:
- PhysicalExam: Your doctor will perform a general physical examination and take a medical history, including a description of your symptoms, how long you have had them, and the circumstances in which they occur. It is important to ask if you have any other medical problems or risk factors.
- Neuroimaging: Your doctor may test your neuroimaging functions, such as vision and hearing, to rule out other possible causes of dizziness.
- Physical Exam: The doctor will perform a physical examination of the cervical spine, evaluating its mobility and the presence of painful points.
- Instrumental studies:
- X-rays: X-rays of the cervical spine can help visualize structural changes such as intervertebral disc degeneration or protrusions.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI provides a more detailed look at the structures of the cervical spine to determine if osteochondrosis or other changes are present.
- Computed tomography (CT): A CT scan can be performed to further visualize the vertebrae and discs.
- Lab tests: In some cases, your doctor may order lab tests to rule out other medical conditions that may be causing dizziness.
- Stability and Balance Tests: Thesetests can be performed to assess your ability to maintain balance in various movements and positions.
Differential diagnosis
Cervical osteochondrosis dizziness can mimic or accompany other medical conditions. Differential diagnosis can help distinguish symptoms caused by cervical osteochondrosis from those associated with other diseases or disorders. It is important to have a comprehensive examination and evaluation to make sure the diagnosis is correct. Some of the conditions that may be included in the differential diagnosis of dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis include:
- Vascular disorders: V ascular problems, such as atherosclerosis or vascular malfunctions, can cause a lack of blood supply to the brain and lead to dizziness. Ruling out or detecting such problems may require angiography or other vascular studies.
- Vestibular disorders: Vestibular disorders such as vestibular neuritis or Meniere's disease may also cause dizziness and balance problems. These disorders may require specialized vestibular function tests.
- Migraine: Migraine may be accompanied by dizziness, especially in some patients. It is important to distinguish between migraine with aura and other forms of dizziness.
- Other cervical spine conditions: Osteochondrosis is not the only cervical spine condition that can cause dizziness. For example, cervical disc herniations or spondylosis can also cause similar symptoms.
- Neck pain and headaches: Uncontrolled neck pain or migraines can cause or worsen dizziness.
Consultation with a physician, clinical examination, and performance of necessary laboratory and instrumental tests such as MRI, CT, vascular angiography, audiometry, and vestibular tests are recommended to determine an accurate diagnosis and differential diagnosis.
Treatment of the dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis.
Dizziness associated with cervical osteochondrosis may be caused by compression or irritation of nerves in the cervical spine or by an impaired blood supply to the brain. Treatment involves treating the underlying cause (osteochondrosis) and managing the symptoms of vertigo. Here are some medications and techniques that may help with dizziness caused by cervical osteochondrosis:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or diclofenac (Voltaren) can help reduce inflammation and pain in the cervical spine.
- Muscle relax ants: Medications such as tizanidine (Zanaflex) or cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) can help relax neck muscles and reduce muscle spasms, which can reduce pressure on nerves and improve circulation.
- Medicationsto improve cerebral circulation: Your doctor may prescribe medications such as zincalcium (Cinnarizine) or piracetam (Nootropil) to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce symptoms of dizziness.
- Vascular medications: Med ications that improvevascular tone and microcirculation, such as Vinpocetine or Trental, may help with dizziness.
- Vitamins and supplements: Your doctor may recommend supplements such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, or magnesium, which can be helpful for osteochondrosis and dizziness.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help strengthen neck muscles, improve mobility of the cervical spine, and reduce the risk of recurrent vertigo attacks.
- Massage: A professional massage can help relax muscles and improve circulation.
Relieving an attack of vertigo associated with cervical osteochondrosis can be uncomfortable and requires caution. Here are some steps you can take to relieve dizziness during an attack:
- Get comfortable: If possible, sit or lie on your back in a comfortable position. This can help reduce stress on the cervical spine and blood vessels.
- Turn your head gently: If head movements cause or increase dizziness, try turning your head slowly in the direction that causes the least pressure and discomfort. Avoid sharp and forceful turns.
- Deep breathing exercise: Try breathing in and out slowly and deeply. This can help improve oxygen flow to the body and relieve some tension.
- Lightly massage your neck: Gently and gently self-massaging your neck can help relax muscles and improve circulation.
- Cool compress: Applying a cool compress to your neck or forehead can help relieve some symptoms of dizziness.
- Focus on fixing your gaze: Try fixing your gaze on static objects to reduce the sensation of spinning.
- Do not get upabruptly: If you are lying or sitting, do not get up abruptly. Get up gradually to avoid losing your balance.
- Follow your doctor's recommendations: If you already have a doctor's recommendation or prescribed medication, follow it. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory or relaxing medications.
Exercises for osteochondrosis headaches.
Exercises and exercises to relieve dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis can help strengthen the neck muscles, improve blood circulation and reduce tension in the neck area. When performing the exercises, it is important to observe proper technique and follow the steps. Here are examples of exercises and how to perform them correctly:
1. Neck stretching exercises:
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Head tilts forward and backward:
- Sit up straight in a chair with your feet on the floor and your hands on your hips.
- Gently tilt your head forward, trying to touch your chest to your chin. Hold the pose for 5-10 seconds.
- Return to the starting position and repeat the forward bend several times.
- Then gently tilt your head backward, looking up toward the ceiling. Hold the pose for 5-10 seconds and repeat several times.
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Head tilts sideways:
- Sit up straight in a chair and place your left hand over your right ear.
- Gently tilt your head to the left, trying to touch your left ear to your left shoulder. Hold the pose for 5-10 seconds.
- Return to the starting position and repeat the bend to the left several times.
- Then perform head tilts to the right, placing your right hand on your left ear. Hold the posture and repeat the exercise.
2. Strengthening the neck muscles:
- Hand Resistance:
- Sit up straight and place the palm of your left hand on your forehead.
- Try to tilt your head forward while resisting with your left hand.
- Hold the pose for 5-10 seconds, then relax.
- Repeat the exercise with your right hand, placing it on the back of your head.
3. Exercises to improve balance:
- Shoulder Supports:
- Stand up straight with feet shoulder-width apart and arms along your body.
- Slowly lift your right foot off the floor and keep your balance, being careful not to touch your other foot.
- Try to hold the pose for 20-30 seconds.
- Gradually lower your right leg and repeat the exercise with your left leg.
4. Relaxation and breathing exercises:
- Deep breathing:
- Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes and relax.
- Take a deep breath in through your nose, filling your lungs with air.
- Then slowly exhale through your mouth, relaxing your neck and shoulders.
- Repeat this process for 5-10 minutes to relax.
Always start exercises slowly and carefully. If you feel pain or discomfort, stop exercising and seek medical advice. Exercise should be regular but not uncomfortable. Therefore, it is important to monitor how you feel and consult your doctor or physiotherapist before starting a new exercise program.
Drug treatment
Cervical osteochondrosis dizziness can mimic or accompany other medical conditions. Differential diagnosis can help distinguish symptoms caused by cervical osteochondrosis from those associated with other diseases or disorders. It is important to have a comprehensive examination and evaluation to make sure the diagnosis is correct. Some of the conditions that may be included in the differential diagnosis of dizziness with cervical osteochondrosis include:
- Vascular disorders: V ascular problems, such as atherosclerosis or vascular malfunctions, can cause a lack of blood supply to the brain and lead to dizziness. Ruling out or detecting such problems may require angiography or other vascular studies.
- Vestibular disorders: Vestibular disorders such as vestibular neuritis or Meniere's disease may also cause dizziness and balance problems. These disorders may require specialized vestibular function tests.
- Migraine: Migraine may be accompanied by dizziness, especially in some patients. It is important to distinguish between migraine with aura and other forms of dizziness.
- Other cervical spine conditions: Osteochondrosis is not the only cervical spine condition that can cause dizziness. For example, cervical disc herniations or spondylosis can also cause similar symptoms.
- Neck pain and headaches: Uncontrolled neck pain or migraines can cause or worsen dizziness.
Consultation with a physician, clinical examination, and performance of necessary laboratory and instrumental tests such as MRI, CT, vascular angiography, audiometry, and vestibular tests are recommended to determine an accurate diagnosis and differential diagnosis.
Vasodilator medications can sometimes be used to relieve symptoms of dizziness associated with cervical osteochondrosis if they are associated with impaired blood supply to the brain. However, prescribing and choosing medications should be done by a doctor after diagnosing and evaluating your condition. Here are a few vasodilator medications that may be used occasionally:
- Cinnarizine: Cinnarizine is an antihistamine drug with vasodilating properties that is sometimes used to treat dizziness.
- Vinpocetine: Vinpocetine improves cerebral blood flow and may be useful for relieving symptoms of dizziness associated with impaired blood flow to the brain.
- Pyroquinone (Piracetam): Pyroquinone may improve blood flow to the brain and is used for the symptomatic treatment of dizziness.
- Nicarbine (Nicergoline): Nicerbine improves cerebral blood flow and may be used to reduce symptoms associated with dizziness.
- Pentoxifylline: Pentoxifylline may also improve blood flow to the brain and is used to relieve symptoms of dizziness.
It is important to note that the use of these drugs should be carried out only with a doctor's prescription. Treatment of cervical osteochondrosis and associated dizziness should be comprehensive and include physical therapy, medication, exercises and other methods.
Other medications
- Mexidol: Mexidol is an antioxidant and antiangiovrotic drug that is sometimes used to treat vertigo, including vertigo caused by cervical osteochondrosis. Its action is aimed at improving cerebral circulation and reducing vascular hypertension. A physician should be consulted for the exact dosage and duration of administration.
- Betahistine: Betahistine is a medication that is commonly used to treat dizziness associated with vestibular disorders. It can help reduce symptoms of dizziness for a variety of conditions, including cervical osteochondrosis. The dosage and dosage regimen should also be approved by a doctor.
- Betaserk (Betaserk): Betaserk is also a medication used to treat dizziness and vestibular disorders. It may help reduce symptoms of dizziness for a variety of conditions, including cervical osteochondrosis. The dosage and dosage regimen should be determined by a doctor.
- Cinnarizine: Cinnarizine is a vasodilator that may be used to relieve symptoms of dizziness. It may help improve blood flow to the brain and reduce vascular tension. A doctor should be consulted for exact dosage and regimen.
- Fezam (Phenazepam): Phezam is a drug that is commonly used to treat anxiety and neurosis. It can help reduce anxiety and in some cases reduce anxiety-related dizziness. However, this drug can have side effects and potency to addiction, so it should only be taken when prescribed by a doctor.
- Vazobral(Vazobral): Vazobral is a combination medication that contains dicyclomine and cafetrile. It may be used to improve cerebral circulation and relieve symptoms of dizziness. The dosage and regimen should be determined by a doctor.
- Glycine: Glycine is an amino acid and can be used as a supplement to relieve stress and anxiety. It is not a specific cure for dizziness, but it can help with relaxation and stress relief, which in turn can have a positive effect on symptoms.
- Midocalm: Midocalm is a myorelaxant that helps relax muscles. It may be prescribed to reduce muscle spasms and tension that can occur with cervical osteochondrosis and cause dizziness.
- Cavinton(vinpocetine): Cavinton is a drug that is sometimes used to improve blood supply to the brain and may be used in some cases to treat dizziness associated with circulatory problems in the brain. However, its efficacy and safety for specific conditions always require evaluation by a physician.
- Sirdalud (tizanidine): Sirdalud is a medicine that can be used to relieve cramps and muscle spasms. It may be prescribed if dizziness is associated with tension and pain in the neck muscles, which may be characteristic of cervical osteochondrosis.
- Actovegin (Solcoseryl): Actovegin contains an extract from calf's blood and is often used to improve metabolism and blood supply to tissues. Its use for cervical osteochondrosis and dizziness may be aimed at improving tissue nutrition, including the muscles and nerves of the cervical spine.
- Milgamma (Milgamma): Milgamma is a combination medication that contains B vitamins (vitamins B1, B6, and B12) and alpha-lipoic acid. This medication can be used to improve the nervous system and reduce pain symptoms, including those that can occur with cervical osteochondrosis. However, the dosage and dosage regimen should be determined by a physician.
- Cytoflavin (CitoFlavin): Cytoflavin is a medication containing vitamins and antioxidants that may help improve cerebral blood flow. It may be used to relieve symptoms of dizziness associated with impaired blood flow to the brain. The dosage and regimen should also be determined by a doctor.
- Spazmalgon(Spazmalgon): Spazmalgon is a combination drug that contains analgesic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory components. It can be used to relieve pain and relieve muscle spasms that may accompany cervical osteochondrosis. The dosage and duration of use should be recommended by a physician.
Dizziness massage for osteochondrosis.
Massage for dizziness associated with cervical osteochondrosis can be beneficial, but should be done carefully and only under the supervision of a professional. Here are some basic aspects of massage techniques, indications and contraindications:
Massage Technique:
- Massage for dizziness and cervical osteochondrosis should be gentle and cautious.
- The massage therapist should use light and smooth movements, avoiding heavy pressure and jerky movements.
- Massage may include warming techniques, rubbing and stroking to relax the neck muscles and relieve tension.
- The patient should be in a comfortable position that allows complete relaxation.
- Massage can be performed on both the back and front of the neck, focusing on painful points and areas.
Indications for massage:
- Cervical osteochondrosis accompanied by muscle tension and neck pain.
- Dizziness caused by straining and clenching of the neck muscles.
- Limited mobility of the cervical spine.
Contraindications for massage:
- Open wounds, abrasions or infections on the neck area.
- Increased bleeding or clotting disorders.
- Skin diseases or skin allergies in the massage area.
- Acute inflammatory processes in the neck area.
- Spondylosis or other serious changes in the cervical spine without medical authorization.
Before starting a massage, it is important to consult with a doctor to evaluate your condition and clarify whether massage is appropriate in your case. Also, make sure that the massage will be performed by a qualified massage therapist or physical therapist who is experienced in working with patients suffering from osteochondrosis and vertigo. Following all medical advice and precautions will help make massage a safe and effective treatment option.