Cervicogenic Headache Symptoms

In this article, we will explore the topic of cervicogenic headache, shedding light on its symptoms and causes. As a leading physiotherapy clinic, we understand the impact that headaches can have on your daily life, and we aim to provide you with valuable insights to help you better understand and manage this particular type of headache.

Cervicogenic headaches can be a source of immense discomfort, affecting individuals of all ages and lifestyles. By delving into the details of this condition, we hope to empower you with the knowledge necessary to recognise cervicogenic headaches, seek appropriate treatment, and make informed decisions about your well-being.

At Atlas Physiotherapy, we are committed to promoting optimal health and providing comprehensive care to our patients. Whether you are experiencing persistent headaches or seeking preventive measures, our team of experienced professionals is here to support you throughout your journey to better health.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of cervicogenic headaches, from understanding the symptoms and causes to exploring effective treatment options. Remember, knowledge is power, and by equipping yourself with the right information, you can take proactive steps towards finding relief and improving your quality of life.

 

Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are experiencing headaches or any other health concerns, we recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Now, let’s dive into the world of cervicogenic headaches and discover the keys to effective management and relief!

Symptoms

From secondary school onwards it’s not uncommon to see option ‘E’ in a multiple choice exam paper for those considering the ‘all-of-the-above’ answer to the question posed by the examiner.

Cervicogenic headache – head or facial pain caused by the neck is a classic example of this.

To point the finger of blame solely at poor posture only covers option: ‘A’ on the exam paper!… it’s certainly not wrong, but is only part of the picture. Granted – ideal neck function relies on good posture. I’ve treated many headache cases by instructing a simple posture correction – a nagging parent can do this!.. and please, go ahead!

Included toward the top of the long list of causes would have to be whiplash. This is when the head is flung rapidly in any direction resulting in a strain of the neck’s soft tissues. Car or sporting accidents are among the most common injuries we see.

“I woke up with it” – No, your partner isn’t a headache, but occasionally your pillow too can age beyond its use-by date and no longer offers the support the neck needs. People that like to sleep on their stomach also often have this problem. Our necks have enough flexibility to tolerate this until about our mid-30’s. After this age, having to turn our neck [in order to breath], irritates the ligaments that hold our neck bones together causing the headache.

“It’s not a tumour!!”… yep, stress is right up there too.

How many times a day do we tilt our heads in an odd way when using the phone, whether you sandwich the phone between your chin and shoulder or not ?

There are many more causes, but headaches are very often the result of poor mobility between the skull and the two bones below. Because the tongue and throat are suspended from these bones too, jaw function isn’t beyond suspicion.

By now, you get the picture that headaches can be a complex problem. Assuming it is one of the above could be making a vital mistake – it could indeed be more sinister and warrant special investigation.

Here at AtlasPhysiotherapy we use a systematic approach to establish the primary cause for your headache. We can then discuss a suitable treatment strategy to get your symptoms under control quickly.

Causes

A cervicogenic headache can be caused by many things based on a certain person’s lifestyle however, it can be very difficult to pinpoint one issue causing the pain.

Have you ever wondered what causes these headaches?

One of the main culprits behind cervicogenic headaches is neck dysfunction. Take a moment to reflect on your posture. Do you often find yourself slouching or hunching over your desk? Poor posture can contribute to cervicogenic headaches. And what about any past neck injuries? Have you ever experienced a whiplash injury or any trauma to your neck? Such incidents can lead to cervicogenic headaches, as they disrupt the normal function of your cervical spine.

 

The Stress-Headache Connection: Unraveling the Link

 

But that’s not all. Consider how stress affects your body. When you’re stressed, do you tend to hold tension in your neck and shoulders? The answer is often a resounding “yes.”

Repetitive strain injuries, poor ergonomics at work, or even emotional stress can result in muscle tension and spasms in your neck and shoulder region, paving the way for cervicogenic headaches.

Let’s not forget about the role of nerves. Did you know that nerves in your neck, particularly the upper cervical nerves, are closely connected to the trigeminal nerve, responsible for transmitting sensations from your face to your brain? Now, imagine if these cervical nerves get irritated or compressed.

Have you ever been diagnosed with cervical spondylosis, experienced a whiplash injury, or felt a tingling sensation down your arm? These conditions can give rise to cervicogenic headaches as well.

 

 

How is your daily routine Causing your pain?

Now, think about your daily routine. Are you guilty of spending hours hunched over your computer screen without taking breaks? Or engaging in activities that strain your neck, like heavy lifting or repetitive motions? These actions can aggravate cervicogenic headaches.

Let’s not underestimate the impact of stress, anxiety, and poor sleep quality. Have you been neglecting self-care lately? These factors can contribute to the intensity and frequency of your headaches.

Reflecting on these questions can help you identify potential triggers for cervicogenic headaches in your own life. It’s crucial to understand the underlying causes to develop an effective treatment plan.

Are you experiencing the debilitating symptoms of cervicogenic headaches? Don’t suffer in silence any longer!

Take charge of your health and find the relief you deserve by scheduling a consultation with our skilled physiotherapist at Atlas Physiotherapy.  Don’t let pain control your life – reach out to us today and take the first step towards reclaiming your well-being. Contact us now to book your appointment and embark on your journey towards a pain-free future.