Back pain is a common issue that many people deal with, often interfering with daily life and reducing overall quality of life. For some, conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, or injections might not provide…
Vertigo and nausea should not be a regular part of your day. Can a pinched nerve in the back cause dizziness? When these symptoms pair themselves with considerable back pain, there’s a chance you may be suffering from a pinched nerve.
The nerves along your spinal column can end up pinched for various reasons. If you are contending with dizziness on top of the pain, bring your concerns to our team. We’ll work to design a treatment plan that relieves your dizziness and reduces the amount of pain you’re in daily.
Back Pain, Neck Pain, and Dizziness
Dizziness and back pain, as well as neck pain and dizziness, tend to go hand in hand. If you find yourself abruptly contending with unexpected back pain, dizziness could indicate that the pain doesn’t stem from a strained muscle but rather severe damage. Injuries or conditions affecting the neck muscles can lead to dizziness symptoms due to nerve irritation or pressure, particularly linked to posture and spinal degeneration. A pinched nerve, for example, may be held in place by a damaged vertebrae or swollen disc.
Other conditions that result in both back pain and dizziness can include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Cervical spine instability and cervical spondylosis can also lead to both neck pain and dizziness.
- Acute spinal cord injuries
- Major trauma to the back or neck
- Fibromyalgia
- Whiplash
- Pregnancy
Classifying Your Cervicogenic Dizziness in the Wake of a Pinched Nerve
If you’re struggling to understand why you’re experiencing back pain and dizziness, consider what other symptoms you may be experiencing. Symptoms of a pinched nerve can include (but are not limited to):
- Radiating pain throughout your back
- Feelings of numbness in your hands and feet
- Burning sensations
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness in a specific spot along your spine
Cervicogenic dizziness is another condition that can cause dizziness symptoms, often linked to neck pain and cervical spine issues.
You should always work with a professional to diagnose a pinched nerve. Even so, you can keep an eye out for these additional symptoms if you suspect something’s amiss with your back. Cervical vertigo symptoms can also include dizziness, imbalance, and coordination issues.
Cervical vertigo treatment involves a multifaceted approach that includes medication, physical therapy, and addressing underlying causes to alleviate symptoms. It is crucial to follow healthcare provider recommendations and consider a combination of conventional and alternative therapies for effective management.
Still Suffering In Pain?
Our team of top orthopedic and spine surgeons use minimally invasive techniques designed to minimize discomfort, reduce recovery time and deliver lasting relief.
When to Go to a Medical Professional
Your back is more vulnerable to damage than you might think. You could find yourself contending with a pinched nerve after an accident or because you slept in an uncomfortable position. Either way, you need to seek a medical professional’s guidance if you are contending with abrupt, sharp back pain along an affected nerve pathway.
Our team can sit down with you and discuss the nature of your back pain. After performing CT and MRI scans, we can tell you more about the health of your back. From there, we can recommend treatments based on your unique conditions.
Disruptions in nerve signals can affect the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like dizziness and imbalance. Your dizziness, for example, may suggest that nerve signals aren’t consistently reaching your brain. Alternatively, they may indicate a disruption in the blood flow to your cerebellum. In either case — or any of the others noted here — we’ll work to assess your condition accurately.
Our Team Provides Individualized Spinal Care Consultations
While there is some consistency across pinched nerve cases, no two people are likely to experience the symptoms through the same lens. The treatment plans we recommend for patients with pinched nerves are individualized. We work with you to learn more about your lifestyle, mobility, and desires for the future. For patients dealing with chronic neck pain, our individualized treatment plans can provide significant relief.
Once we understand what you want from treatment through our facility, we can recommend a treatment plan that suits your needs. Your treatment can include physical therapy, surgery, or other non-surgical spinal care. We also offer treatments for conditions like cervical vertigo, which can cause dizziness and balance issues. We can also adjust your treatment plan in response to your pain to ensure that you’re constantly receiving the care you need.
Please schedule an Appointment With Our Professionals Today
If you are experiencing neck pain and dizziness, don’t resign yourself to living with discomfort long-term. Instead, contact Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery. Our team of experienced professionals can assess your pain and prescribe an individualized treatment plan designed to suit your needs. We take our time when addressing your back pain. This way, we can ensure that you receive the comprehensive treatment you deserve. For more information about our services, schedule an appointment through our contact form or by calling 407-712-8789.
Q&A
What is cervical vertigo, and how does it relate to neck pain?
Cervical vertigo is a condition caused by problems in the cervical spine, specifically in the neck. It often occurs due to misalignment or injury in the neck, leading to dizziness, imbalance, and other symptoms. Cervical vertigo symptoms may include feelings of unsteadiness, difficulty walking, or even nausea. If you’re experiencing both neck pain and dizziness, you may have cervical vertigo, and it’s important to seek medical attention to manage the condition effectively.
What are the common cervical vertigo symptoms?
Cervical vertigo symptoms commonly include dizziness, imbalance, difficulty focusing, and coordination problems. These symptoms may worsen when you move your neck. People with cervical vertigo may also experience headaches or neck pain. Because this condition can interfere with daily activities, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment, which may involve physical therapy and other interventions.
Can physical therapy help with cervicogenic dizziness and cervical vertigo?
Yes, physical therapy can be highly effective in treating cervicogenic dizziness and cervical vertigo. Through exercises that strengthen the neck and improve posture, physical therapy can help alleviate pressure on the cervical spine and spinal cord. This can reduce dizziness and improve overall mobility. In many cases, a personalized physical therapy plan is a key part of managing and recovering from cervical vertigo.
How is the cervical spine related to dizziness and balance issues?
The cervical spine plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and head positioning. Injuries or degeneration in this area can irritate nerves or affect blood flow to the brain, leading to dizziness and balance problems, such as those seen with cervicogenic dizziness and cervical vertigo. A pinched nerve in the cervical spine can further exacerbate these symptoms, making it essential to seek professional care for diagnosis and treatment.
Can a pinched nerve in the cervical spine cause dizziness?
Yes, a pinched nerve in the cervical spine can cause dizziness. This is because the nerves in the neck are closely connected to the brain’s balance centers. When these nerves are compressed or irritated, they can disrupt communication with the spinal cord and the brain, leading to dizziness, imbalance, and other cervical vertigo symptoms. Proper medical evaluation and treatment are crucial to address the underlying cause and reduce these symptoms effectively.
These Q&A entries focus on explaining complex terms in an accessible way and emphasize the importance of diagnosis and treatment options such as physical therapy.