Cervical Spondylosis and the Characteristics of Associated Dizziness

One of the primary causes of dizziness related to cervical spondylosis is believed to be the compression of the vertebral artery within the transverse foramen due to a herniated disc. This compression can lead to constriction of the vertebrobasilar arteries and reduced blood supply, ultimately causing symptoms of dizziness and imbalance. Patients suffering from vertebral artery-related cervical spondylosis often experience dizziness when turning their head toward the side where the disc is herniated. To compensate, they tend to move their entire body slowly rather than rotating the head independently, maintaining a more stable posture.

Understanding the Mechanism Behind Cervical Vertigo

When a patient makes a sudden or forceful head movement, the herniated disc may further compress the vertebral artery, resulting in an abrupt decrease in blood flow. This can trigger sudden dizziness, temporary vision loss, or even fainting, increasing the risk of falls. As a protective response, individuals often avoid rapid or extreme head rotations. Instead, they adopt a safer movement pattern—keeping the head aligned with the body and rotating the entire torso to look sideways or backward. This behavior is a key characteristic of dizziness caused by cervical spondylosis.

How Patients Compensate for Dizziness

By maintaining a forward gaze and moving the body as a whole, patients can reduce the likelihood of triggering vertigo episodes. This adaptation helps them maintain balance and visual orientation, minimizing the risk of sudden dizziness. Over time, this movement pattern becomes habitual, further distinguishing cervical vertigo from other types of dizziness caused by inner ear disorders or neurological conditions.

Implications for Diagnosis and Daily Life

Recognizing these specific movement patterns and symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Healthcare providers should consider cervical spondylosis as a potential cause when patients report dizziness triggered by head movements, especially when accompanied by restricted neck mobility or a history of neck pain. Understanding these characteristics can also help patients modify their behavior, avoid triggering movements, and seek appropriate treatment to manage symptoms effectively.