Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: October 14, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Dizziness when Bending Over and Paresthesia to Upper and Lower Extremities

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Cervical Spondylosis: This condition involves wear and tear on the discs in the neck, which can lead to compression of the spinal cord or nerves. Bending over can exacerbate this compression, leading to dizziness and paresthesia in the extremities. The symptoms are consistent with cervical spondylosis, especially given the specific triggers and the distribution of paresthesia.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Herniated Cervical Disc: Similar to cervical spondylosis, a herniated disc in the cervical spine can compress nerves or the spinal cord, leading to dizziness when bending over and paresthesia in the upper and lower extremities.
  • Multiple Sclerosis: This autoimmune disease can cause a wide range of neurological symptoms, including dizziness and paresthesia. While less common, the symptoms could be consistent with a relapse or new onset of multiple sclerosis.
  • Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological symptoms, including paresthesia in the extremities. Dizziness could be related to other systemic effects of the deficiency.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Spinal Cord Compression: This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Symptoms can include dizziness, especially with changes in position, and paresthesia or numbness in the extremities. Causes can include trauma, infection, or tumors.
  • Subclavian Steal Syndrome: This condition involves the compression or occlusion of the subclavian artery, leading to reversal of blood flow in the vertebral artery. It can cause dizziness, especially with arm exercise or certain positions, and could potentially lead to paresthesia if there's associated vertebral artery insufficiency.
  • Chiari Malformation: A structural defect in the cerebellum that controls balance can cause dizziness, especially with changes in position. Some types of Chiari malformation can also lead to spinal cord symptoms, including paresthesia.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Adrenal Insufficiency: Though rare, adrenal insufficiency can cause dizziness due to orthostatic hypotension and potentially paresthesia due to electrolyte imbalances.
  • Tabes Dorsalis: A late manifestation of syphilis that affects the spinal cord, leading to symptoms like dizziness and paresthesia. Given its rarity and the need for specific risk factors, it's less likely but should be considered in the appropriate clinical context.
  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A group of disorders that affect connective tissues, which could potentially lead to spinal instability and symptoms like dizziness and paresthesia, especially with certain positions or movements.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.