The Difference Between BPPV & Cervical Vertigo

Dizziness and vertigo can be disorienting, often leaving individuals unsure of the cause of their symptoms. Two common types of vertigo: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and Cervical Vertigo. These conditions both share similar symptoms but have different origins and treatment needs. We’ll explore the key distinctions between these conditions, their symptoms, and available treatments to help clarify what might be causing your dizziness.

What Is BPPV?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a type of vertigo that occurs due to an issue in the inner ear. The inner ear contains tiny crystals called otoconia, which are typically located in the utricle, a part of the vestibular system. These crystals aid in balance by responding to gravity. However, in BPPV, the crystals become dislodged and move into one of the semicircular canals where they shouldn’t be. This displacement disrupts normal fluid movement in the canal, triggering dizziness or vertigo.

Signs and Symptoms of BPPV

• Sudden, intense spinning or dizziness triggered by specific head movements, such as turning over in bed, looking up, or tilting the head back.
• Short episodes of vertigo, typically lasting only a few seconds (usually 20–30 seconds), but the intensity can be alarming.
• No hearing loss typically accompanies BPPV.
• Nystagmus, or involuntary eye movements, may be observed during a vertigo episode, which can help healthcare providers diagnose the condition..

The good news about BPPV is that it’s benign, meaning it’s not life-threatening, and it typically resolves on its own. However, if left untreated, episodes can become more frequent or intense.

What is Cervical Vertigo?

Cervical Vertigo, on the other hand, arises from issues related to the cervical spine (the neck). It’s thought to result from neck movement or injury that affects the joints, muscles, or nerves in the neck area. This type of vertigo can be triggered by conditions like cervical spondylosis (degeneration of the spine), whiplash injury, or even poor posture that strains the neck.

When neck structures are irritated or inflamed, they can disrupt the normal communication between the neck and the brain’s vestibular system, which controls balance. As a result, patients with cervical vertigo may experience dizziness or a feeling of imbalance when they move their head or neck.

Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Vertigo

• Dizziness or a sense of imbalance that worsens with neck movement, such as turning the head or looking up.
• Neck pain or stiffness that accompanies the dizziness, often after a specific injury or prolonged poor posture.
• The dizziness is usually not as intense or sudden as BPPV, and it may feel more like lightheadedness or a general feeling of being off balance.
• There may be associated headaches, shoulder pain, or muscle stiffness in the neck area.

Treatment Options for BPPV and Cervical Vertigo

While both conditions involve dizziness, their treatments are quite different, as the underlying causes are not the same.

Treatment for BPPV

The good news is that BPPV is highly treatable. The primary treatment involves specific physical maneuvers that aim to reposition the displaced otoconia back into their correct position in the inner ear.

1. Epley Maneuver: This is a series of head movements performed by a healthcare provider that help move the dislodged crystals back to their original location in the utricle.
2. Semont Maneuver: Another repositioning technique that helps relocate the crystals in the ear canal.
3. Brandt-Daroff Exercises: A series of exercises that patients can perform at home to help treat BPPV over time.

These treatments are often effective in providing relief within one or two sessions and have a high success rate in preventing further episodes.

Treatment for Cervical Vertigo

Cervical vertigo typically requires a multifaceted approach to address the underlying causes and alleviate symptoms.

1. Physical Therapy: A trained therapist can guide you through specific exercises to improve neck mobility and posture, and strengthen neck muscles, which can help reduce dizziness and prevent future episodes.
2. Medications: Pain relief medications or muscle relaxants may be prescribed to ease neck pain and reduce inflammation.
3. Chiropractic Care: For some, chiropractic adjustments may be helpful in realigning the spine and improving joint mobility in the neck.
4. Ergonomic Modifications: Improving posture, adjusting seating arrangements, or using better pillow supports during sleep can help reduce strain on the neck and alleviate dizziness.

In some cases, if cervical vertigo is caused by an injury or a more severe underlying condition, and conservative care has not resolved the issue additional interventions like injections or surgery may be necessary.

Secure The Treatment You Need With Spinal & Sports Care!

While both BPPV and Cervical Vertigo cause dizziness, they stem from different causes. BPPV arises from the inner ear, while cervical vertigo is related to neck issues. Both conditions are treatable, but the treatments vary depending on the source of the dizziness. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience dizziness to determine whether it’s caused by BPPV, cervical vertigo, or another condition. With the right treatment, both conditions are manageable, and you can regain balance and confidence in your movements.

If you are experiencing dizziness, consider consulting a healthcare professional at Spinal & Sports Care. Reach out to our team today for a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.