• Vjekoslav Grgić.
• vjekoslav.grgic@zg.t-com.hr
• Lijec Vjesn. 2006 Sep 1; 128 (9-10): 288-95.

AbstractCervical proprioceptive system (CPS) consisting of mechanoreceptors of cervical intervertebral joints, mechanoreceptors of neck muscles and ligament's insertions, muscle spindles located in deep short muscles of cervical spine and sensitive fibers connecting neck's proprioceptors with neurons of cornu posteriori of spinal cord, plays an essential part in maintaining bodily balance. CPS, via tractus spinovestibularis, is connected to vestibular nuclei. Clinical and neurophysiological studies have shown that functional disorders and/or organic lesions of CPS cause identical symptoms as vestibular diseases: vertigo, nystagmus and balance disorders. Dysfunction (functional blockade) of craniocervical joints is the most frequent cause of cervicogenic proprioceptive vertigo (CPV). The constant tension of the capsule of a blocked joint irritates mechanoreceptors protecting the joint's capsules. The increased activity of mechanoreceptors results in confusion of vestibular system. That is, the impulses from the blocked craniocervical joints do not correspond to the impulses from the vestibular organ and other sensory systems that take part in maintaining bodily balance. The disharmony of impulses results in an inadequate vestibulo-spinal and vestibulo-ocular reaction manifesting as vertigo and nystagmus. Hyperactivity of craniocervical mechanoreceptors also causes disturbances in reflex regulation of postural muscle tonus manifesting as "general instability". Knowledge of CPV as a separate clinical entity is important from diagnostical and therapeutical aspect. As it concerns a peripheral vestibular disorder still unknown to a wider circle of physicians, the article describes etiopathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and therapy of CPV with special emphasis on manual therapy.

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