Dizziness and Neck Pain After Chiropractic Adjustment - Neurology

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After a chiropractic adjustment, experiencing dizziness and neck pain can be concerning, especially given your recent history of neck manipulation. It’s good to hear that you have already undergone a CTA (Computed Tomography Angiography) which showed no signs of vertebral artery dissection, a serious condition that can occur after neck manipulations. However, the persistence of your symptoms warrants further investigation and management.

Dizziness following a chiropractic adjustment can arise from several factors. One possibility is that the adjustment may have caused muscle strain or spasm in the neck region, leading to irritation of the surrounding nerves. This can result in localized pain and referred symptoms, including dizziness. The cervical spine is closely linked to the vestibular system, which helps control balance. If the neck muscles are inflamed or if there is any mechanical dysfunction, it can lead to sensations of dizziness or lightheadedness.

The presence of a tender point near the cervical spine suggests that there may be muscle strain or tension in that area. This could potentially lead to nerve compression or irritation, which might explain your symptoms. Additionally, if the adjustment caused any misalignment or exacerbated an existing condition, it could contribute to your discomfort.

Regarding your gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, it is less likely that they are directly related to the chiropractic adjustment. However, stress and anxiety about your health can sometimes manifest as gastrointestinal disturbances. It is essential to monitor these symptoms, as they may require separate evaluation.

To address your current symptoms, here are some steps you might consider:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help alleviate muscle tension and improve neck mobility. A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen the neck muscles and improve posture, which may reduce pain and dizziness.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can help manage pain and inflammation. If the pain persists, a healthcare provider may prescribe muscle relaxants or other medications.

3. Follow-Up Imaging: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, further imaging studies, such as an MRI of the cervical spine, may be warranted to rule out any structural issues, such as herniated discs or other abnormalities.

4. Neurological Evaluation: Given the dizziness and neck pain, a referral to a neurologist may be beneficial. They can perform a thorough neurological examination and determine if there are any underlying conditions that need to be addressed.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Ensure that you maintain good posture, especially when sitting at a computer. Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace can help reduce strain on your neck.

6. Hydration and Diet: Monitor your hydration and dietary habits, especially if you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. Staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet can help mitigate some digestive issues.

In summary, while your dizziness and neck pain may be related to muscle strain or nerve irritation following the chiropractic adjustment, it is crucial to continue monitoring your symptoms and seek further evaluation if they persist. Engaging in physical therapy, managing pain, and considering a neurological evaluation are all appropriate next steps. If your gastrointestinal symptoms continue, it may be worth discussing them with your primary care physician to rule out any other underlying issues.