Dizziness happens when something affects your sense of spatial orientation. Spatial orientation is your brain calculating the position of your body in relation to your surroundings. When that happens, you may feel woozy or lightheaded. You also may feel unsteady, as if you’ve lost your sense of balance.
Feeling dizzy when you stretch your arms above your head is not uncommon, it is quite common. Many people find themselves feeling dizzy when they stretch their arms above their head, and if you feel the same way, you do not need to worry about it.
What causes dizziness when you stretch your arms above your head?
There are a number of potential causes of dizziness when you stretch your arms above your head. Some are simple issues, while others can be more serious and require medical attention.
Potential causes may include:
- Muscle strain and fatigue: Tight or overused muscles in the neck, shoulders, or upper back can restrict blood flow and make you feel dizzy when you stretch your arms above your head.
- Dehydration: When you are dehydrated, it can cause you to lose blood volume and lower your blood pressure. This can make you more susceptible to dizziness when doing physical activities such as stretching.
- Inner ear problems: Conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular migraine can cause dizziness when you move your head, such as when you stretch your arms above your head.
- Orthostatic hypotension: Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure when you go from sitting or lying down to standing. Stretching your arms above your head can also cause this drop in blood pressure. Dizziness can be caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure.
- Cervical spondylosis: Degenerative changes in the cervical spine, such as cervical spondylosis, can compress your nerves or blood vessels. This compression can get worse when you stretch your arms above your head and cause dizziness.
What are the treatments for dizziness when stretching your arms above your head?
Addressing dizziness when performing overhead arm stretches may include:
- Hydration and nutrition: It is important to stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet. Nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium can help prevent fatigue and muscle cramps. Staying hydrated supports muscle function and helps flush out toxins that can cause muscle tension.
- Posture adjustments: Practicing good posture and ergonomics can help reduce muscle tension and fatigue, especially in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
- Medication: In some cases, over-the-counter medications may be used to help control pain, inflammation, or muscle spasms. Medications should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can develop an individualized treatment program to address the underlying problem causing dizziness when you raise your arms overhead. Physical therapy can help with problems like muscle tension and vestibular imbalances.
You should also follow a healthy lifestyle to help prevent dizziness
These measures may include:
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids
- Increase your sugar intake
- Avoid alcohol
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Avoid standing still for long periods of time
- Try elevating your head while sleeping by using a support
