Can Arthritis in the Neck Cause Dizziness?

Cervical arthritis, a common condition treated by our specialists at OmniSpine Pain Management, is also known as cervical osteoarthritis or cervical spondylosis. It involves the degeneration of joints and discs within the cervical spine—the portion of the spine located in the neck. Over time, wear and tear cause the cartilage cushioning these joints to deteriorate gradually. When this cartilage breaks down, bones may rub against each other, resulting in inflammation, pain, stiffness, and restricted neck mobility.

At OmniSpine Pain Management, we understand that cervical arthritis can develop due to aging, repetitive stress, prior injuries, poor posture, or genetic factors. Patients experiencing cervical arthritis often report persistent neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and muscle spasms. In advanced cases, nerve compression may occur, leading to neurological symptoms such as tingling, numbness, weakness, or radiating pain in the shoulders, arms, or hands.

Additionally, cervical arthritis can cause the formation of bone spurs (osteophytes), further exacerbating symptoms by irritating nerves or compressing spinal structures. Our goal is to promptly identify and address these issues, preventing further discomfort and limitations that can impact daily activities and quality of life.

Our comprehensive approach begins with a thorough physical examination and detailed patient history, supported by diagnostic imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to accurately assess the structures of your cervical spine. Following diagnosis, our expert team develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Treatment options typically include lifestyle modifications, targeted physical therapy exercises to enhance neck strength and flexibility, medications to control inflammation and pain, and minimally invasive interventions such as targeted injections. If conservative treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, we also offer advanced procedures and coordinate care with surgical specialists when necessary.

At OmniSpine Pain Management, we recognize that dizziness related to neck arthritis—also known as cervicogenic dizziness—originates primarily from degenerative changes in the cervical spine and can significantly impact your quality of life. Patients experiencing cervicogenic dizziness often describe sensations of imbalance or instability that become more noticeable with neck or head movements, such as turning quickly or looking upward.

Common symptoms include episodes of dizziness triggered by specific neck movements, neck pain or stiffness, headaches beginning at the back of the head, and reduced mobility in the cervical spine. Additionally, individuals may report sensations of lightheadedness or unsteadiness when standing or walking, sometimes accompanied by nausea or mild spatial disorientation. These symptoms can greatly reduce confidence and comfort during everyday tasks.

Because cervicogenic dizziness symptoms often resemble those of vestibular or neurological disorders, it is essential to receive expert evaluation and accurate diagnosis. At OmniSpine Pain Management, our skilled specialists are dedicated to precisely diagnosing and effectively managing dizziness associated with neck arthritis. Through personalized treatment plans, we aim to relieve chronic pain, restore mobility, and help you regain stability and confidence in your daily activities.

Dizziness associated with arthritis of the neck—known medically as cervical arthritis or cervical spondylosis—is a common condition we see here at OmniSpine Pain Management. While dizziness related to cervical arthritis often causes understandable concern, it’s important to note that it does not always indicate a severe medical condition. Typically, dizziness occurs when degenerative changes in the cervical spine affect nerves, muscles, blood vessels, or even pathways related to balance and the inner ear. These changes can interfere with signals sent to the brain, resulting in sensations of imbalance, unsteadiness, or vertigo.

We emphasize a proactive approach to managing cervical arthritis symptoms. Occasional mild dizziness often arises from neck stiffness, muscle tension, or normal age-related degeneration of spinal structures. In these common cases, we find conservative treatments such as targeted physical therapy, posture correction techniques, specialized exercises to strengthen the neck muscles, and personalized pain management strategies can significantly improve or eliminate dizziness and discomfort.

However, we also understand the importance of identifying when dizziness signals a more serious underlying issue. If your dizziness is persistent, severe, or accompanied by neurological symptoms—such as numbness, tingling, weakness, loss of coordination, severe headaches, or vision disturbances—it may indicate that cervical arthritis is affecting nerve structures, blood supply, or the spinal cord. Such symptoms require prompt medical evaluation.

At OmniSpine Pain Management, our experienced specialists will thoroughly assess your symptoms, perform appropriate diagnostic imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRI scans), and tailor a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs. Early diagnosis and targeted management of cervical arthritis-related dizziness can reduce complications, enhance your quality of life, and help prevent long-term damage. Reach out to us today to learn more about the symptoms of neck arthritis.

For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. Our clinics are located in Frisco, TX, Sunnyvale, TX, and Mesquite, TX. We serve patients from Dallas TX, Frisco TX, Mesquite TX, Sunnyvale TX, Plano TX, Garland TX, Forney TX, Cedar Hill TX, Denton TX, Balch Springs TX, and surrounding areas.