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How the Neck Affects Balance
Your neck does much more than support your head. Inside the joints, muscles, and ligaments are tiny sensors called proprioceptors, which send information to the brain about your head’s position. These signals work together with your eyes and inner ear to maintain balance.
When the neck is stiff, strained, or injured, the signals can become disrupted. This “mismatch” confuses the brain, which may result in dizziness, unsteadiness, or a sensation of floating.
Symptoms of Neck-Related Dizziness
Neck-related vertigo presents differently from other forms of dizziness. Common symptoms include:
Lightheadedness or unsteadiness rather than a strong spinning sensation
Tightness, discomfort, or pain in the neck
Headaches that often accompany dizziness
Blurry vision or visual fatigue
Dizziness triggered by turning the head, looking up or down, or holding the neck in one position for too long
Common Causes and Triggers
Several everyday factors and health issues can contribute to dizziness linked to the neck:
Whiplash or other neck trauma
Poor posture from long hours at a desk or using mobile devices
Age-related wear and tear in the cervical spine
Arthritis, disc problems, or joint stiffness
Muscle tightness and trigger points
Sleeping on an unsupportive pillow or in awkward positions
Diagnosis: Could Your Neck Be Responsible?
Diagnosing cervicogenic dizziness usually begins with a thorough history and physical assessment. A physiotherapist may look at:
When symptoms occur and whether they are linked to neck movement
Range of motion and mobility in the cervical spine
Posture, muscle strength, and joint function
Balance and coordination tests
Other potential causes of dizziness, such as ear or neurological conditions, may need to be ruled out to confirm the diagnosis.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Vertigo and Dizziness
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to manage neck-related dizziness.
Treatment often includes:
Manual therapy to restore neck mobility and reduce stiffness
Muscle release techniques to ease tension and trigger points
Targeted exercises to strengthen deep neck muscles and improve posture
Vestibular and balance retraining to restore stability and coordination
Ergonomic and lifestyle advice for better posture at work and during daily activities
With consistent treatment, many people notice improvements within a few weeks. Long-term strategies, such as home exercises and ergonomic changes, help maintain progress and prevent flare-ups.
Preventing Neck-Related Dizziness
Simple lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of vertigo linked to the neck:
Adjust your workstation to keep screens at eye level
Take regular breaks from sitting or looking down at devices
Use a supportive pillow to maintain cervical alignment while sleeping
Stretch and strengthen your neck and upper back regularly
Stay physically active to support joint health and posture
When to Seek Professional Help
You should seek medical attention if dizziness comes with other concerning symptoms, such as:
Sudden severe headaches or vision changes
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and legs
Dizziness accompanied by hearing loss or ringing in the ears
Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve with self-care
Final Thoughts
Yes, your neck could be the hidden cause behind ongoing dizziness or vertigo. The good news is that with the right assessment and treatment, you don’t have to live with these frustrating symptoms.
At Norwest Central Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic, our experienced team provides tailored physiotherapy programs for headaches, dizziness, vertigo, and neck-related conditions. If you suspect your neck may be contributing to your symptoms, book an appointment today and start your journey toward better balance and relief.