Cervicogenic Dizziness and Manual Therapy

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Massage therapists are uniquely suited to incorporate a number of rehabilitation strategies for patients with Cervicogenic Dizziness.

Why Does Massage Therapy Work for Cervicogenic Dizziness?

Several hypotheses regarding the etiology of cervical vertigo, such as neurovascular, somatosensory input, vascular and cervical instability, have been put forward (Yacovino et al. 2013).

A biopsychosocial framework helps put into context the interconnected and multidirectional interaction between: physiology, thoughts, emotions, behaviors, culture, and beliefs. In terms of clinical responses to massage therapy there are a couple of proposed mechanisms of action, including but not limited to: neurodynamics, contextually aided recovery, and neuromodulation

Structures to be Aware of When Treating Cervicogenic Symptoms

A treatment plan should be implemented based on patient-specific assessment findings and patient tolerance (Jung et al. 2017). It should include screening to identify cervicogenic symptoms after a pathomechanical event, leading to appropriate management and medical referrals.

Structures to keep in mind while assessing and treating patients suffering from cervicogenic dizziness may include neurovascular structures and investing fascia of:
• scalene muscles
• sternocleidomastoid
• temporomandibular joint
• longus colli muscle (Lui et al. 2017)

More to Explore

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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27044009

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Jung, F.C., Mathew, S., Littmann, A.E., MacDonald, C.W. (2017). Clinical Decision Making in the Management of Patients With Cervicogenic Dizziness: A Case Series. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28992773/

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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28347935

Leddy, J., Baker, J.G., Haider, M.N., Hinds, A., Willer, B. (2017). A Physiological Approach to Prolonged Recovery From Sport-Related Concussion. J Athl Train. 
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28387557

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Liu, X.M., Pan, F.M., ... Wu, D.S. (2017). Does the longus colli have an effect on cervical vertigo?: A retrospective study of 116 patients. Medicine (Baltimore).
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28328822

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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28483928

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Minguez-Zuazo, A., Grande-Alonso, M., Saiz, B.M., La Touche, R., Lara, S.L. (2016). Therapeutic patient education and exercise therapy in patients with cervicogenic dizziness: a prospective case series clinical study. J Exerc Rehabil.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27419118

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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24855132

van Vugt, V.A., van der Horst, H.E., Payne, R.A., Maarsingh, O.R. (2017). Chronic vertigo: treat with exercise, not drugs. BMJ. 
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