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Neck Mark Murdoch Neck Mark Murdoch

What is cervicogenic vertigo?

Cervicogenic vertigo refers to dizziness or vertigo that arises from a problem in the neck (cervical) region. It is thought to occur due to a disturbance in the sensory input from the neck that is normally processed by the brainstem and vestibular system.

The cervical spine (neck) is composed of seven vertebrae and is responsible for providing support to the head and allowing for movement of the head and neck. The cervical spine also contains important nerves and blood vessels that supply the head and neck region.

Cervicogenic vertigo can occur due to several reasons such as cervical arthritis, whiplash injuries, cervical disc degeneration or herniation, and other conditions that affect the cervical spine. When these structures become damaged or irritated, they can send abnormal signals to the brainstem, which may lead to symptoms of dizziness or vertigo.

Symptoms of cervicogenic vertigo may include:

  • Dizziness or vertigo that is triggered by the movement of the head or neck

  • Neck pain or stiffness

  • Headaches

  • Nausea

  • Visual disturbances

  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

The diagnosis of cervicogenic vertigo can be challenging, as it requires a thorough evaluation of the neck and vestibular system. Treatment typically involves a combination of physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medication to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address underlying structural issues in the cervical spine.

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Mark Murdoch Mark Murdoch

What is lumbar disc derangement?

Lumbar disc derangement is a condition that affects the discs located in the lower back or lumbar region of the spine. The spine is composed of a series of bones called vertebrae, which are separated by soft tissue discs that act as shock absorbers and allow the spine to move and bend.

When one or more of the discs in the lumbar region become damaged or irritated, this can refer to lumbar disc derangement. Certainly, here's a revised paragraph with neutral language:

Some common symptoms of lumbar disc derangement include lower back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Depending on the severity of the condition, a person may also experience pain that radiates down into the legs.

Treatment for lumbar disc derangement depends on the severity of the condition and may include conservative measures such as rest, chiropractic care, exercise, physiotherapy, and pain management, as well as more invasive treatments like injections or surgery in severe cases. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of lumbar disc derangement, as early treatment can help prevent further damage and improve outcomes.

If you think you might be dealing with lumbar disc derangement, book a free consultation today.

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Mark Murdoch Mark Murdoch

What is cluneal nerve irritation?

The cluneal nerves are a group of nerves that originate from the lower lumbar and upper sacral spinal nerves and provide sensory innervation to the skin overlying the buttocks and the low back region. The nerves consist of three branches: the superior, middle, and inferior cluneal nerves.

Cluneal nerve sensitivity refers to the level of sensitivity or reactivity of these nerves to various stimuli, such as pressure, touch, or temperature changes. When the cluneal nerves are irritated they become hypersensitive. When they are hypersensitive, even mild pressure or touch to the skin overlying the buttocks and low back region can cause pain or discomfort. This can be due to various reasons, such as nerve entrapment, nerve irritation or inflammation, or muscle tension that compresses or irritates the nerves.

Cluneal nerve sensitivity can also be influenced by underlying medical conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, arthritis, or sciatica. In some cases, the sensitivity may also be related to psychological or emotional factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression.

Treatment of cluneal nerve sensitivity typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the sensitivity. This may involve physical therapy, chiropractic, stretching and strengthening exercises, medication, or in some cases, surgical intervention. In addition, lifestyle changes such as weight management, stress reduction, and regular exercise can also help alleviate cluneal nerve sensitivity.

If you think you might be dealing with functional lumbar instability, book a free consult today.

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Low Back Pain Mark Murdoch Low Back Pain Mark Murdoch

What is functional lumbar instability?

Functional lumbar instability (FLI) is a term used to describe a condition where there is an excessive motion or lack of control in the lumbar spine during functional activities such as walking, standing, or bending.

It is a complex and often poorly understood condition that may be caused by a combination of factors including muscular weakness, imbalances, and inadequate coordination, as well as anatomical abnormalities, injuries, or degenerative changes in the spine.

People with FLI may experience low back pain, stiffness, and decreased function, especially during physical activities. They may also have difficulty maintaining a stable posture or controlling the movement of their spine. The symptoms of FLI can be exacerbated by activities that require increased or sustained spinal loading, such as lifting, bending, or twisting.

The diagnosis of FLI is often challenging, as there is no definitive test or imaging finding that can confirm the condition. It is typically diagnosed based on a combination of clinical signs and symptoms, as well as a thorough physical examination that includes testing of spinal stability and control. Treatment of FLI may involve a combination of exercises to improve spinal stability, manual therapy, and muscular strength, as well as education on proper lifting techniques and ergonomic modifications to reduce spinal loading. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address underlying structural abnormalities that are contributing to the instability.

If you think you might be dealing with functional lumbar instability, book a free consult today.


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Running Mark Murdoch Running Mark Murdoch

How to run injury free for life

One thing that I have learned after treating many runners is this: Runners love to run.

If I told you that you could run further, faster, and injury free, would you believe me?

Watch the video to learn how.


Author: Dr Mark Murdoch, Chiropractor and Co-Founder at Base Camp Chiropractic and Sports Rehab in Vernon, BC.

Mark Murdoch is a Doctor of Chiropractic with a Master’s Degree in Sports Medicine.

www.BaseCampClinic.com

Contact: drmurdoch@basecampclinic.com

Instagram: Base.Camp.Doc

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