Cervicogenic Dizziness after Humeral Fracture: A Case Report

Fateme Bokaee

doi:10.18502/jost.v11i1.18013

Fateme Bokaee Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jost.v11i1.18013

Keywords: Dizziness; Humeral Fractures; Myofascial Release Therapy; Spine; Trigger Points

Abstract

Background: Cervicogenic dizziness is a nonspecific sensation of disequilibrium in the space. Abnormal proprioceptive inputs from the cervical spine and neck muscles may induce cervicogenic dizziness. Trigger-point activation of the suboccipital muscles may be related to cervicogenic dizziness. This case study aimed to present a case of cervicogenic dizziness after humerus fracture.

Case Report: The present case report describes a 38-year-old man who was referred for physiotherapy to restore the motion of his right shoulder after surgery for a humerus fracture. The patient reported dizziness after the shoulder surgery. The patient had no medical problems that could induce dizziness. Physical examination revealed a trigger point activation of the suboccipital muscles. Myofascial release and chin-tuck exercises were performed, and the patient reported improvement in dizziness. Trigger point activation of the suboccipital muscles in this patient may be related to abnormal head posture during shoulder surgery and/or impaired scapulohumeral rhythm and overactivity of the cervical muscles participating in shoulder elevation.

Conclusion: The possibility of cervicogenic dizziness should be considered after humeral fractures.