Slipped disc | Dizziness through the cervical spine

Slipped disc

Between each of our vertebral bodies lies a so-called intervertebral disc, which is made up of two parts, the outer fibrous ring and the inner gelatinous core. The main function of the intervertebral discs is to dampen shocks and limit the range of motion. Due to this heavy strain to which the intervertebral discs are exposed every day, degenerative changes occur in the course of life.

In the course of these changes, the outer fibrous ring may tear and the liquid gelatinous core may leak out, a herniated disc. Depending on where the tearing occurs, the gelatinous core can spread in different directions. If the exiting nucleus causes constriction of the spinal cord or compression of a nerve root, dizziness can occur, among other things, because the receptors in the nerves are irritated and transmit false information to the brain that does not correspond to the information from other sensory organs. Although herniated discs in the cervical spine are less common than in the lumbar spine, they show an increasing tendency.

Blockade

In an accident such as a car accident with whiplash, sports accidents with a fall on the head or a deep fall from a tree, the uppermost cervical vertebrae, which are located directly on the skull, can be shifted slightly to the side in their position and can easily tilt and/or twist. As a result, the spinal cord is trapped in this area and a permanent pressure load is applied. As a result, the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated more than necessary.

In addition to other symptoms such as an increase in blood pressure, ringing in the ears and poor concentration, dizziness can also occur. A blockage in the area of the cervical spine can also occur in infancy, in particular, because the supporting apparatus of the spine is still very weak at this time. Special care must therefore be taken during the birth process.

A slight pulling of the head during the expulsion phase to support the spine may be enough to cause a displacement of the vertebral bodies. Children born with blockages in the upper cervical spine may develop into so-called “screaming children”. This is most likely caused by night-time pain due to tension.