Cervicocephalic syndrome is a clinical condition in which pathological changes of the cervical spine cause a combination of symptoms affecting both the neck and the head, including pain, headache, dizziness, balance disturbances, and, in some cases, visual or auditory symptoms.
Its mechanism is associated with dysfunction of the upper cervical segments, which have rich sensory innervation and close anatomical connections with structures such as the vestibular system and the vertebrobasilar circulation. Disturbances in these areas may therefore produce a mixed symptom pattern involving both local cervical and central nervous system manifestations.
Common causes include degenerative changes of the cervical spine, whiplash injuries, muscle spasm, and poor posture. In some cases, mild impairment of vertebrobasilar circulation may also coexist.
Patients often describe a sensation of instability, pressure, or “tightness” in the head, which may worsen with specific neck movements or rotations, accompanied by neck pain and stiffness.
Diagnosis requires careful exclusion of other, more serious causes of dizziness or headache through clinical examination, imaging evaluation of the cervical spine, and, when necessary, neurological or otorhinolaryngological assessment.
Treatment is mainly based on physical therapy, including targeted cervical mobilization and strengthening exercises, postural correction, and, when required, medication to control pain and dizziness.