Vestibular Rehab for CERVICOGENIC DIZZINESS / CERVICOGENIC VERTIGO | Best Exercises

[@charlenedavis8802]

I’m just learning about Vertigo and types. I’ve been falling a lot for years but these falls have increased with myself ending with broken bones, bruises, cuts. I have seen many dr’s of different fields and have had many tests. None of them fit the bill for my falls. Closest so far is the Vertigo. It fits the VOR the best. My PT dr. Showed me about your videos. Very informative. I have started with first 2 exercises. I was exhausted after. I don’t know why my dr’s have missed this. I pray this is the answer and i can start driving again.

[@MovementFunction]

I'm glad your PT recommended my videos. Take your time with the exercises. It is normal to feel fatigued after doing them, but not so bad that it affects your daily activity. If it is too tiring, decrease the intensity by doing fewer repetitions until your body gets used to it, and then slower increase repetitions and exercises. Please check out my additional advice for managing symptoms and fatigue in the vestibular rehab series starting with the beginner level. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqO1qHSan79papY

[@wilmiestijg8574]

😊​@@MovementFunction

[@Chiroman527]

I'm so glad to have stumbled upon your UT video. Thank you Doctor. I have Cervicogenic issues encompassing C4-C7 / T-1 disc bulges, DDD in the all the discs , facet joint arthritis, and sites of Stenosis. Unfortunately for me, those maladies extend throughout my entire Spine. I have seen other PT videos about this specific issue of Vertigo / Dizziness / lighheadedness, but none as expressive and explanatory as this one !!. I have a 1 inch shorter right leg as a result of a fracftured femur playing HS football in 1966 -I'm 70 now. That shorter right leg was left unaddressed by the Ortho doctor and my parents 9who really didn't know better) at that time after the Full Body cast came off. Over the course of the next 15 years or so, the lower back began to feel stiff and uncomfortable during certain activities. THAT has evolved into creating Dextroscoliosis of 25 degrees whereby the lower to mid spine Curves BUT also Twists. It was not until 2011 +/- after my first major comprehensive Orthopedic visits / consultations did I have the first series of MRIs. Not only were the spinal discs degrading , the Cervical MRI also disclosed that I had a More Narrow Than Normal spinal canal according to the Radiologist report. For the past 5 years dealing with encroaching and constant Chronic Pain & Stiffness in my spine, affecting my entire well being, I commenced my own research in this regard. Poor Forward head Posture (daily commuting for 48 years, appx 75% by Car ), the shorter right leg [ now wearing adjusted shoes - but way too late] which wreaked Havoc with my spine / hips, and OA along all the facet joints sparked many doctor visits, many Chiros, many PTs. Any interesting factoid i received form a Rheumatologist who testd me for Anklyosing Spndyliosis (AS) and RA - both negative, said the Inflammation in my SI joints is Significant contributor to body mechanics - SI joints are Ground Zero for maladies going Up the Spine to the skull !! I post this info for info purposes only as my story - hopefully for other people's benefit. Don't Ignore your neck and Back issues & drink lost of water ; I never did. Your vertebrea discs are 80% Water. 40 years + of smoking cigarettes very bad overall, but especially for connective tissues.

[@Ok-Mardy]

I've recently had vestibular issues and I'm going to therapy now I'm doing some these exercises with good results thanks for these videos on vestibular problems I'm finding out there are many people suffering with vestibular issues just like me keep up the good work!

[@MovementFunction]

M Goble, you're welcome and thank you for the comment! I'm glad you're finding good results with these videos along with your therapy. Great combination.

[@mossandmirthvlog]

Thank you so much for sharing how to treat cervicogenic dizziness! I've been taught these same exercises by physical therapists, but I greatly appreciate being able to watch them at home, and look forward to watching your other videos!

[@MovementFunction]

Fantastic! That is one of the reasons why I posted these videos - to augment PT exercises in the clinic. Go glad they are helping you!

[@theawakening6323]

I have cervicogenic dizziness and right vestibulopathy. I’ve been going for physiotherapy for many months. Recently, I’ve also started to see an osteopath. She relieves my neck and upper back pain. I did feel some dizziness when she touched on some muscles on my back. But this morning, I experienced positional vertigo again while turning in bed and while getting up.😮

[@jdssurf]

I’ve been blessed with BPPV and having to become a pro at learning to battle it, and also getting occipital nausea lol, fun stuff huh

[@Jim-bh7gs]

Me,too. Epley helps BPPV, but not the cervical dizziness. I can mostly tell the difference. BPPV (ear crystals movement) usually has a build up,so I get ready. It leaves a little hangover after Epley, it has a "full" feeling in the ear. This video looks helpful. I am trying it today. Cervical dizziness mostly while lying down, sometimes bending down,always looking up- as when putting in eye drops. Both at times debilitating.

[@jdssurf]

@@Jim-bh7gs check into occipital nerve stuff, do you feel the tension under the base of your skull, on one side or other, put a golf ball in palm of your hand, press it into those areas under right side under skull while turning head to the left, then turn head to right while pressing the ball and rolling it around on the left side. When you hit tender spots stay on them and roll em out, do it a few times a day. look up neck mobility stretches. these things are what's helped me best, i'll link you to some good neck vids if i can find them.

[@lumibubu8857]

Hello! I just wanna thank you with all my heart. Ive been doing these exercices plus ther ones for cervical instability daily for like 6 days and i am def feeling much better. My dizziness is not completely gone yet but is DEFINITELY better than it was . Do u have any video for activate the muscles behind the shoulders? Cuz they are connected to neck too and mine are verry weak. Also, what happens after u do these for months? U continue to do them or u move to another level?

[@MovementFunction]

Hello Lumi Bubu. I'm glad that you're feeling much better! I suggest continuing the cervical stabilization video series by moving on to the Part 2 cervical stabilization video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpvTlKyuadd9Z7M. Also check out the lower cervical stabilization video, which includes activating muscles in the shoulders and upper back. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZSpiZmbh7iigtE. Beyond that, I've posted many videos for the thoracic spine (upper and mid back) as well as shoulders. Check out the playlists for cervical spine and shoulder rehab. All the best to you!

[@lumibubu8857]

@@MovementFunction Thank you so much! God bless you❤

[@bigdaddy5948]

My vertigo never stops. I've learned to function with it

[@devinderverma-ip9rk]

Thanks for sharing this video

[@mr.mikerivera6251]

Many thanks for the exercises. What are your thoughts on the Neck Stretcher that went viral on social media?My kids got me one for Christmas. Any devices you can recommend? Appreciate your time!!!

[@MovementFunction]

You're very welcome. The neck stretcher is the latest derivation of the home cervical traction unit, which has been around for decades. It may be helpful when compression of the cervical spine is present and causing problems. It would not be good for someone with hypermobility or instability. I don't recommend any specific devices because they must meet the specific needs of the individual.

[@andrewpotter3995]

Always good advice thank you

[@MovementFunction]

Andrew, you're welcome. Thank you for your comments! Much appreciated.

[@Anberel]

I’ve been having difficulty finding a diagnosis for my vertigo. I saw an ENT and they just shrugged and said it wasn’t my ears. What kind of doctor would I need to see to be evaluated as to whether this is the cause of my chronic vertigo? I’ve had it for 6 years, ever since I started having symptoms of proximal muscle wasting. I keep telling doctors that I think there’s something wrong with my muscles in my head and neck that’s causing it but they keep dismissing me.

[@MovementFunction]

Wiste N., based on your symptoms of proximal muscle wasting and vertigo, I recommend seeing a neurologist for a thorough evaluation. The next specialist I would recommend is a physiatrist. Here is a link to the provider directory on VeDA's website (Vestibular Disorders Association): vestibular.org/healthcare-directory/. All the best!

[@heroliau3866]

Recently I find out I have vertigo ..so thank you this exercise video. How about motion sickness? Any exercise video for motion sickness

[@MovementFunction]

Hero liau, I have posted this video for visually-induced motion sickness: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5Caemqwhp2Ha8U. And this is the video for BPPV (positional vertigo): kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6ayemmVobV8b5Y

[@lindamiller726]

Beth, I had a massage therapist check out my neck today. She says I'm super tight on the occipitol region and I have a knot on my sub something or rather. She knows I suffer from headaches and dizziness. Thoughts? Would love a reply. I'm getting x-rays Monday at my nucca chiropractors office. He says my adjustment isn't lasting as long. I'm considering getting neck work done through his office. Write back!

[@MovementFunction]

Linda, it sounds like your suboccipital muscles are tight and you have trigger points, which is very common with cervicogenic vertigo. The exercises in this video target the suboccipital muscles, among other structures, and will likely be helpful.

[@MovementFunction]

Linda, I just now saw another comment you wrote about trying a new pillow and getting vertigo, which explains your BPPV question on the other thread... now I understand! It sounds like you have a few things going on... the tightness in your neck could be responsible for the vertigo you experienced after trying the new pillow, so it might be cervicogenic vertigo and not BPPV that caused your spins... Just my opinion and a possibility, not a diagnosis...

[@lanemoore6680]

Thank you so much. I am doing your vestibular exercises. They are helping a lot. I live in a rural area and going to pt sessions is difficult.

[@MovementFunction]

Lane, I'm just now seeing your comment. You're very welcome. I'm glad they're helping you and providing access to resources where you live. All the best!

[@Chiroman527]

Lane, I've been to many PT sessions per the dr's scripts. my Experience reveals that PT is only as Good as the Home exercises that you need to do. A good therapist like this doctor, can isntruct and guide you, but it is Up to You to do them daily. Most people don't do the exercises - I'm guilty Too. Good Luck and get Better !!

[@knightourage7441]

Thank you for the videos Great help & detailing Hope you make some videos on toe and leg spasm & its treatments ..

[@MovementFunction]

Here is a video I posted on treating and preventing leg cramps: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqWUnoOfZdZ4j8k

[@jdssurf]

Best thing for you guys to separate it from being cervical occipital vs bppv is to do the Dix Halpike test for BPPV. I get both lol, nightmare.

[@Chiroman527]

jbird, Cervical Instabilities are a Nightmare. They cause many maladies because they can affect the VAGUS Nerve which is the biggest Cranial nerve form your Brain Stem through your upper cervical region and connects to various Organs in the body. Check out Caring Medical UT Channel - Dr. Ross Hauser for more info on Cervical Instabilities. i suffer with many spinal issues evolving from a shorter right leg (see my comments to the doctor on this video), affecting my neck and all the related problems : Tinnitus, Vertigo/lightheadedness, TMJ Syndrome, IBS/GERD, Chronic Sinusitis, even bouts of Bladder and bowel Incontinence. I'm 70 yo, and can advise: Don't ignore your Spine - it is your well being advocate in your Body.

[@freieyl301]

Hi, doc, First of all, thanks a lot for such a great exercise and your professionalism. Also, i have one question. I have been suffering from neck problems for more than 10 months, main symptom and I would say the only symptom I have got is dizziness (imbalance, floating), I have been diagnosed with neck instability and vertebral artery syndrome, however, the vertebral artery is not very compressed and blood flow is normal, however, I still have this imbalance and floating senses, which is really annoying and sometimes it provides other annoying symptoms, like lose of concentration and so on. it is not just annoying it is more suffering. I tried different medications which helped for some time but after I increased my physical activity dizziness and imbalance also increased a little by little. I do neck stabilization and overall core stabilization exercises, however, it does not fully help. Sitting is the hardest part, especially, on a chair that does not have back support and so and so. what should I do? Am I doing something wrong or it is just a matter of time and I should continue doing exercises.

[@MovementFunction]

It sounds like you are doing what is best - neck stabilization and core stabilization. It can take a lot of time to see improvement. Hang in there and continue. Sitting without back support is one of the toughest positions... try to use choose chairs with back support and/or use additional lumbar/thoracic support as needed. You may also benefit from grounding exercises to help reduce the floating sensation and improve focus/concentration.

[@freieyl301]

Thank you again for such advices. @@MovementFunction

[@freieyl301]

Sorry again for question, do you think this floating and imbalance sensations are more psycho-somatic nature?@@MovementFunction

[@arjubista1554]

I am a dentist and i have been diagnosed with cervicogenic vertigo recently. I want to know the prognosis of this disease. Is it 100% cureable or i have to live with his curse forever which I don’t want. Please HELP!

[@MovementFunction]

arju bista, I have worked with people who have fully recovered from cervicogenic vertigo. Ongoing postural correction and maintenance exercises are often required to prevent or manage recurrence.

[@sayonjathapa682]

How are you doing right now? Any improvement? I am too having cervicogenic dizziness but i got so much of relief after doing these neck strengthening exercise, not completely but it has helped me a lot.

[@aldusric]

I suffered for many months with this type of dizziness. The only thing that really cured me were STRONG AND ALMOST PAINFUL MASSAGES ON THE UPPER NECK AND NECK. All due to muscular contracture and anxiety disorder.

[@ibrahimzain9472]

Massage by a professional or by urself?

[@aldusric]

@@ibrahimzain9472 Myself but making the habit

[@ibrahimzain9472]

@@aldusric like pressing here and there? I need to try. I have no pain in the neck thiugh

[@ManishRaj-yz7lb]

Hello my Screening of the cervical spine shows posterior herniation of the disc at C5-C6 level, indenting the ventral thecal sac and cord, with a mildly narrowing AP diameter spinal canal at this level measuring 9 mm. Which exercises should I be doing? I have a problem of vertigo and dizziness when walking or sudden movements also I feel my neck and shoulders too stiff and when it relaxes the headache goes away and dizziness too. The doctor said vertigo is because of vestibular issue but I feel it's because of my neck and shoulders stiffness issue.

[@MovementFunction]

I suggest that you see a physiotherapist for individualized evaluation to determine the source of your symptoms and to create the best and most appropriate treatment plan for you.

[@bilalhaider8052]

I am getting headache after doing these exercises... how long will it last??

[@MovementFunction]

I suggest decreasing the intensity of the exercises to eliminate (or at least reduce) the headaches. Try decreasing the speed and amount of movement, as well as the number of reps, until you are able to complete the exercises without a headache (or only minimal pain, e.g.1/10 intensity).

[@EynOdMilevado]

I had an ear infection that caused terrible vertigo for two weeks. I only have a tiny bit left now. Feel dizziness if I look up at the ceiling. Wondering if it’s related to the ear infection I had or if it’s a cervical issue which coincidentally showed up now.

[@MovementFunction]

huvs gib, the vertigo associated with the ear infection was possibly due to vestibular neuritis, which commonly occurs with ear infections. The lingering dizziness while looking up is not unusual with vestibular neuritis and can improve with vestibular rehab (you have probably already seen my beginner vestibular video). That doesn't rule out the possibility of a cervical issue showing up now. The timing could be due to inflammation associated with the ear infection impacting an underlying cervical issue, sleeping in different positions due to ear pain, or other changes in posture, positioning or movements associated with the ear infection and vertigo.

[@EynOdMilevado]

@@MovementFunction thank you very much for your reply. I shall go now to check out the video beginning vestibular which I have not yet seen.

[@zahra1389]

How do we know its cervicogenic?

[@MovementFunction]

Great question. Long answer. The simplest indication is if a specific head movement consistently provokes vertigo whether you're upright (sitting, standing) or lying down. For example, if turning your head to the left makes you dizzy when you're sitting up and lying down or any other position, then it might be cervicogenic. Neck pain, stiffness, headaches, history of injury or degeneration, and other symptoms and conditions in the cervical spine are also common with cervicogenic vertigo. In severe cervicogenic dizziness, neck dysfunction might cause symptoms at rest without head movement. Sometimes more than one cause of vertigo is present at the same time. A diagnosis is typically made by a physician after other causes of vertigo are ruled out and there is a connection between neck dysfunction and vertigo.

[@zahra1389]

@@MovementFunction thank you! When doing VRT if some of the exercises doesn’t bother at all should we completely stop them and move on to next pregression or need to keep doing all of them until fully recovered.

[@MovementFunction]

@@zahra1389 Go ahead and stop them and move on to the next progression.

[@lindamiller726]

@@MovementFunction sounds just like me!!

[@MovementFunction]

@MaeganMemories Have you seen a specialist for evaluation of your dizziness? There are many causes of dizziness, so it's important to eliminate serious issues and identify a diagnosis (or narrow it down to a few diagnoses) in order to direct treatment and get the best outcomes.

[@richardg.lacherre9336]

Hi how’s it going I have a question, I am doing the intermediate vestibular exercises but also I’m doing the cervicogenic dizziness and vertigo, I had a TBI back in 2020, is this too much to do in one day or it’s fine to do both the same day? I have dizziness and some vertigo because of the tbi and I thought this exercises will help me.

[@MovementFunction]

Hi Richard. I'm glad you found my videos as I think they will likely both be helpful for you. You might be able to tolerate both sets of exercises in one day, especially if you can offset the sessions am/pm or at least take a few hours break between exercises. If you feel increased symptoms that last more than 20 minutes following the session, then it's too much, and I'd recommend trying alternating days for the videos.

[@aprilragsdell2846]

Good day. Years ago, physiotherapist gave me similar exercises for cervicogenic dizziness, and I did not improve. My inner ears and brain MRI were fine btw. I have been doing CVD targeted exercises this week, and am feeling slightly worse. Should I consult PT, neurology etc for a reevaluation? Thanks.

[@MovementFunction]

Good day April, I suggest seeing a neurologist for reevaluation. Also, is CVD referring to cardiovascular disease? Or something else? If cardiovascular, then I suggest following up with the cardiologist or whoever prescribed the CVD exercises. All the best.

[@aprilragsdell2846]

@Movement & Function oops, I was referring to Cervicogenic dizziness. Not sure how I came up with CVD on that one! A previous neuro diagnosed Vestibular migraine, but yes, going for second opinion. Thanks again

[@periklisspanos7185]

We don’t need doctors we have u tube