Many people experience neck pain and dizziness at the same time — but few realize how closely these two problems can be connected. Neck pain and vertigo often share a common link through the cervical spine, which plays an essential role in maintaining balance and head movement coordination.
If you have been suffering from stiff neck, dizziness, or loss of balance, understanding this connection can help you find lasting relief.
What Is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a sensation that makes you feel as if you or your surroundings are spinning or moving even when you are still. It’s a common symptom of various balance disorders and may come with nausea, unsteady gait, or visual disturbances.
While vertigo is often caused by inner ear issues, in some cases, the neck muscles and cervical spine can play a crucial role in triggering it.
How Neck Problems Can Cause Vertigo
The neck contains important proprioceptive sensors — tiny receptors that send signals to the brain about your body’s position. When the neck muscles become tense, injured, or inflamed, these signals may become distorted, confusing the brain and resulting in dizziness or vertigo.
This condition is known as Cervicogenic Vertigo (Cervical Vertigo). It occurs when abnormal neck movement or poor posture interferes with normal balance coordination between the neck, eyes, and inner ear.
Common Causes of Cervicogenic Vertigo
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Whiplash or neck injury
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Muscle strain or stiffness from long working hours
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Poor posture (especially from mobile or computer use)
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Cervical spondylosis (neck arthritis)
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Reduced blood flow to the inner ear or brain due to neck tension
Symptoms You May Notice
If you are experiencing both neck pain and vertigo, you may also have:
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Dizziness or lightheadedness when moving your head
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Tightness or stiffness in the neck muscles
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Headache, especially at the base of the skull
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Nausea or a spinning sensation when turning your neck
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Unsteadiness or loss of balance
These symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may worsen with sudden neck movement or after sitting for long periods.
Diagnosis: Finding the Root Cause
At Dr. Sajib Saha’s Vertigo & Balance Clinic in Dhaka, patients undergo a detailed evaluation to identify whether the dizziness is coming from the inner ear, cervical spine, or neurological system.
Diagnostic steps may include:
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Clinical examination of neck mobility and posture
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Videonystagmography (VNG) to assess eye and balance response
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Audiometry or vestibular tests for inner ear function
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Cervical spine X-ray or MRI (if needed)
Identifying the true cause helps in choosing the most effective and personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Neck-Related Vertigo
Once diagnosed, treatment focuses on relieving neck tension and restoring proper balance function. Common approaches include:
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Neck Physiotherapy & Stretching Exercises
Helps relax stiff muscles, improve posture, and reduce strain on cervical nerves. -
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)
Customized exercises designed to retrain your brain to maintain balance and reduce dizziness. -
Posture Correction & Ergonomic Advice
Adjusting daily habits like screen height, sitting position, and sleeping posture. -
Medication (if necessary)
In some cases, muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, or vertigo-relief medicines may be prescribed. -
Manual Therapy
Performed by a trained professional to improve neck joint mobility and blood circulation.
When to See a Specialist
If your dizziness worsens with neck movement or you experience chronic stiffness, headaches, or imbalance, it’s time to consult a vertigo and balance specialist. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to chronic pain, frequent vertigo attacks, and even falls in severe cases.
Dr. Sajib Saha, a leading Vertigo and Balance Disorder Specialist in Dhaka, provides advanced assessment and treatment for patients suffering from cervicogenic vertigo, Meniere’s disease, BPPV, and other dizziness-related conditions.
Prevention Tips
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Maintain good posture during work and screen time
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Avoid sudden neck movements
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Practice neck stretches regularly
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Stay hydrated and maintain healthy blood flow
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Take frequent breaks when using computers or mobile phones
Final Thoughts
Neck pain and vertigo are often linked through the complex connection between the cervical spine and the balance system. With accurate diagnosis and professional treatment, most patients can experience significant improvement and return to normal daily activities.
If you or someone you know suffers from dizziness related to neck pain, book an appointment with Dr. Sajib Saha today to get a complete evaluation and customized treatment plan.