From the Research
Approximately 30-40% of people with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) have underlying issues with their cervical area, which can contribute to autonomic dysfunction and potentially worsen POTS symptoms. These cervical problems can include craniocervical instability, cervical spine misalignment, or compression of important structures in the neck region that may disrupt normal cardiovascular regulation when changing positions 1. The connection appears to involve potential compression or irritation of the vagus nerve and other autonomic pathways that run through the cervical region. For patients with POTS who have neck pain, headaches, or other cervical symptoms, evaluation by a neurologist or neurosurgeon familiar with the relationship between cervical issues and dysautonomia may be beneficial. Treatment approaches might include cervical stabilization exercises, physical therapy focused on the neck region, or in severe cases, surgical intervention to address structural abnormalities. Understanding this connection is important because addressing cervical issues can sometimes lead to improvement in POTS symptoms in this subset of patients, rather than only managing the cardiovascular manifestations of the condition.
Some key points to consider:
- Cervical spine alignment and sensorimotor control are important for autonomic nervous system function, and restoration of cervical sagittal alignment can have a positive impact on pain, disability, and autonomic nervous system dysfunction 1.
- The presence of cervical radiculopathy or other cervical symptoms may be a predictor of underlying cervical issues that contribute to POTS symptoms 2.
- A thorough evaluation and treatment plan that addresses both the cardiovascular and cervical aspects of POTS may be necessary to improve outcomes for patients with underlying cervical issues 3.
It is essential to prioritize the evaluation and treatment of cervical issues in patients with POTS, as addressing these underlying problems can potentially lead to significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life. Therefore, a comprehensive approach that includes cervical evaluation and treatment should be considered for patients with POTS who have neck pain, headaches, or other cervical symptoms.