Do you suffer from headaches? One of the causes may be a cervicogenic, or neck headache.

Cervicogenic headache has been proposed to account for 4 – 22% of all headaches seen in clinic (Racicki et all 2013; Watson 2014).

Causes of cervicogenic headache

  • Dysfuntion of cervical joints – particularly the upper joints (C0-C3)
  • Trigger points in the muscles of the neck and/or jaw
  • Weakness of the muscles in the neck
  • Pinched nerve(s) due to bony growths eg. Osteoarthritis, disc bulges, inflammation
  • Read more about cerviogenic headache here: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Cervicogenic_Headache

Symtoms of cervicogenic headache

  • Tenderness/pain at the base of the skull
  • Stiffness of the neck
  • Loss of range of movement of the neck
  • Pain that radiates from the front to the back of the skull
  • Pain that is made worse with sustained movement
  • Pain that is worse on one side of the head
  • Temporary relief with self massage around the base of the skull or the trapezius
Trigger point referral patterns in cervicogenic headache

Physiotherapy Options

An assessment is a vital part of helping to diagnose a cervicogenic headache. MobilizeMe Physiotherapy Miami can help with a Gap-Free Assessment. Treatment options to help relieve these types of headaches can include the following:

  • Dry needling
  • Acupuncture
  • Massage
  • Manual therapy
  • Exercise
  • Heat

If you have been suffering with headaches, get in touch. MobilizeMe Physiotherapy Miami has successfully helped countless people get relief! Book online by clicking the button below.