Feeling of instability and dizziness when sitting upright - #21728
I’ve been dealing with a very specific type of dizziness for almost a year, and based on how it behaves, I strongly believe it is neck-related rather than neurological or inner ear related. I function normally in every other way. My arms, legs, speech, walking, and general coordination are completely fine. I don’t have fainting, vision loss, numbness, or severe headaches. This has also not progressed into anything worse over time, which makes a serious neurological cause unlikely. The dizziness appears mainly when my head is upright and unsupported. When my neck muscles are relaxed and my head is not leaning on anything, I get a strong feeling of instability, almost like my head is being pulled backward or like I might “fall inward.” I sometimes feel a strange sensation near the top of my head, as if something is moving or spinning internally. This makes it very hard to concentrate. What stands out to me is that: The symptoms are not triggered by sudden head movements They are position-dependent and can be constant Turning my head left or right often reduces or completely stops the sensation Supporting my head (leaning forward, resting my chin or forehead, lying on my side) significantly improves the symptoms Walking and physical activity feel normal The symptoms are strongest when I fully relax my neck muscles Because of this, I cannot sit upright normally like others without needing some form of head or neck support. I hope you would find sollution for this problem i have.Thank you
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Hello,
Your symptoms most strongly suggest neck-related dizziness (cervicogenic dizziness) caused by weak or over-tight neck muscles, poor posture, or cervical spine strain — not a brain or inner-ear problem
What helps: Posture correction (avoid forward head posture) Gentle neck-stabilizing exercises Limiting long phone/laptop use Heat or physiotherapy for the neck
When to see a doctor: If symptoms worsen If you develop weakness, numbness, vision problems, or severe headaches
This condition is real, common, and treatable
🛑🛑Daily posture fix (most important) Keep ears over shoulders Avoid phone/laptop neck bending Use a firm pillow (not high)
Simple neck exercises (2× daily) Chin tucks: pull chin back, hold 5 sec ×10 Neck isometrics: press head gently into hand (front/back/sides) ×5 each Shoulder blade squeeze: hold 5 sec ×10
(Stop if pain increases)
Muscle relaxation Warm compress on neck 15 min daily Gentle neck stretches (slow, no force)
Lifestyle Take breaks every 30–40 min Reduce stress (stress tightens neck muscles) Stay hydrated
Medical help (if not improving in 4–6 weeks) Physiotherapy (very effective) Avoid neck cracking or sudden manipulation
I trust this helps Thank you
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.