M47.02

Clinical Causes: Bone spurs or osteoarthritis resulting in abnormal bone growth exerting pressure on the artery Degeneration or weakening of the cervical spine structures due to aging Traumatic injuries to the neck or spine that cause swelling or misalignment Cervical spine abnormalities such as congenital malformations Certain repetitive neck movements or postures that place prolonged pressure on the vertebral arteries Vascular abnormalities like artery elongation or tortuosity

Key Symptoms: Dizziness or vertigo, often triggered by neck movements Headaches, particularly at the back of the head Visual disturbances such as blurred vision or transient visual loss Neck pain or stiffness Nausea or imbalance Symptoms may worsen with neck rotation or extension

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of vertebral artery compression syndromes typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging techniques. Healthcare professionals may conduct physical exams to assess neurological function and neck mobility. Imaging studies such as Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), or computed tomography angiography (CTA) can visualize blood flow and identify any compression or structural abnormalities of the vertebral arteries.

Treatment Protocols: Management strategies focus on alleviating symptoms and addressing the underlying causes of artery compression. These may include: - Physical therapy to improve neck mobility and reduce pressure on the arteries - Medications to manage symptoms such as dizziness or headaches - Lifestyle modifications including avoiding provocative neck positions - In some cases, surgical intervention may be considered to decompress the artery or correct structural abnormalities if conservative measures are ineffective Early diagnosis and tailored treatment plans can help reduce the risk of serious complications, such as strokes or persistent neurological deficits.