Diagnosing Cervicogenic Headaches

Do you often find yourself plagued by recurring headaches that seem to originate from the neck? You’re not alone. Cervicogenic headaches, a lesser-known type of headache, can significantly impact your daily life, leaving you searching for answers and relief.

We started a series of articles where we delve into the fascinating world of cervicogenic headaches, exploring their causes, symptoms, and effective diagnostic approaches. Prepare to unravel the mystery and gain a deeper understanding of this elusive condition that affects countless individuals worldwide.

 

 

Getting Diagnosed For a Cervicogenic Headache

Have you ever wondered how healthcare professionals determine if your headaches are cervicogenic in nature? Let’s find out!

First and foremost, a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is crucial. They will start by listening to your symptoms and medical history.
Make them aware of:

• Headaches that seem to originate from your neck
• Any history of neck injuries such as whiplash or conditions like cervical spondylosis
• Finally, any rashes or fevers you are experiencing

Sharing this information is vital in guiding the diagnostic process.

A physical examination will be conducted to assess your neck and its range of motion. The healthcare professional may ask you to perform certain movements and observe your response. Can you rotate your head fully without pain? Are there specific areas that feel tender or tight when palpated? These observations provide valuable clues in diagnosing cervicogenic headaches.

Your doctor will examine for:

• Any abnormalities
• Muscle tension
• Trigger points to the pain

In some cases, imaging studies may be ordered to rule out other potential causes or to further evaluate the cervical spine such as:

• X-rays
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography (CT) scans

These imaging tests help identify any structural abnormalities, such as herniated discs or degenerative changes, that could be contributing to your cervicogenic headaches.

Diagnostic Nerve Blocks
Diagnostic nerve blocks can also play a role in confirming the diagnosis of cervicogenic headaches. During this procedure, a numbing medication is injected into specific nerves in the neck. If your headache improves significantly after the injection, it suggests that the nerves targeted were contributing to your pain. This positive response to the nerve block strengthens the likelihood of cervicogenic headaches as the underlying cause.

Are you tired of living with the burden of cervicogenic headaches? Don’t let the pain hold you back any longer! Take the first step towards relief and reclaim your life by scheduling a consultation with our expert physiotherapist Paul Voorn at Atlas Physiotherapy. With his specialized knowledge and advanced techniques, he will accurately diagnose your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Don’t let cervicogenic headaches control your life – reach out to us today and embark on your journey towards a pain-free future.