Neck pain and dizziness

Most of us will have experienced dizziness at some stage in our lives. Dizziness is a regular occurrence which happens when the brain receives conflicting messages. Neck pain can occur as a result of several conditions, including disorders of the neck tissues. Symptoms of neck pain and dizziness have some similarities and can thus be considered to be related, in certain circumstances.

Causes

Cervical vertigo is a major cause of dizziness and neck pain. Generally, this type of pain is provoked by certain directional movements of the neck. The most common causes of cervical vertigo are vascular compression and abnormal sensory output.

Another type of vertigo that can lead to dizziness and neck pain is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. This is a disorder of the inner ear, and attacks occur due to the irregular movement of crystals within our inner ear fluid. Those with this condition might experience mild neck pain and short spells of neck pain. Sufferers are vulnerable to attacks of this kind if one stares at the sky or lies in a bed. This type of vertigo can also occur as a result of a blow to the head. Vertigo of this kind is relatively harmless.

Neck Pain and Neck Arthritis

Those who suffer from headaches might experience dizziness and neck pain as a result. This might occur when one holds ones neck still - perhaps to avoid the pain of a headache - which can lead to tension in the neck muscles. This tension may lead to pain and thus dizziness.

Neck arthritis is another common cause of these conditions. Arteries serve to transport blood around the body. Severe neck arthritis, along with osteophytes, can affect the blood supply to the posterior part of the brain. This can lead to dizziness and neck pain. One might also experience vertigo as a result.

Physical Activities and Injuries

Some physical activities that are hard on the neck might also lead to pain and dizziness. Included in this definition are activities such as the bearing of heavy loads and dragging large objects. Sitting in front of a computer screen for long periods of time can also lead to neck problems. In fact, general bad posture can lead to problems with neck pain and dizziness.

A previous history of a neck or whiplash injury might lead to recurrent dizziness and neck pain. Even accidents that occur during physical therapy can lead to dizziness and neck pain. This is particularly true if one suffers from an inner ear problem.