Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headache is a specific type of headache that results from stiffness/dysfunction in the upper cervical spine, neck muscles, joints and discs.
Stiffness in the upper cervical spine, specifically the top 3 vertebrae, may sensitise a specific area in our brainstem called the trigeminal cervical nuclei, which can refer pain into our head, causing cervicogenic headache.
What causes injury/stiffness in the upper cervical spine?
Whiplash injury/car accident
Concussion injury from falls or sports
Poor posture or repetitive strains cause by scenarios such as prolonged computer or activities involving constant looking up/down.
Common symptoms with cervicogenic headache may include:
Pulsating pain around forehead, behind the eye, temporal area or back of the skull – more commonly one-sided, but can be both sides
Stiffness and discomfort in neck
Reduced neck range of motion
Dizziness/nauseousness
Difficult concentrating
What is the treatment for cervicogenic headache at Physio on Chatswood/ NorthHab Physio?
Step 1: Thorough history taking to understand your symptom presentation and headache behaviour, frequency, duration and severity
Step 2: Comprehensive assessment to identify the causes of your symptoms, specifically the upper cervical spine, and any potential contributing factors that can influence your symptoms. We will also perform screening tests for the stability of important structures in your neck such as neck ligaments and vertebral arteries.
Step 3: Specific treatment – if relevant, joint mobilisation technique on specific spinal level will be performed. Often headache can be reproduced during the treatment, but it generally settles down gradually as the stiffness on the specific vertebrae reduces.
Step 4: Targeted rehabilitation exercises – to improve the strength and stability of your neck, optimise postural control, and minimise excessive pressure/loading placed on the cervical spine.
If you are suffering from cervicogenic headache, please do not hesitate to contact us and book in an initial assessment with our physiotherapist.
Contact us.
reception@physioonchatswood.com.au
(07) 3208 8111
14 Chatswood Road
Springwood, QLD 4127