Sore Neck and Raging Headache??

We’ve all experienced headaches before, and we all know that there’s nothing worse than not being able to concentrate, or carry out our daily lives without headache pain. Migraine, tension headache and cluster headaches are all commonly heard of in the medical world, but did you know there is another type of headache: Cervicogenic headache.

What is a Cervicogenic Headache?

A Cervicogenic headache is an associated symptom that results from a pathology of the neck. Different neck structures that could trigger this type of headache include: neck joints, muscles, ligaments and discs.

What are the Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headache?

Symptoms often present in association with neck or shoulder pain. These symptoms include:

–       Headache pain into one side of the head

–       Associated neck pain and/or stiffness on the same side

–       Headache pain increased with neck movements

–       Headaches lasting anywhere from 1 hour to weeks

–       Non-throbbing headache, usually starting in the neck

What can be done?

Cervicogenic headache is a result of a pathology in the neck. Unlike other headaches where sleep, water, or rest can quickly resolve pain, the underlying issue is a structure within the neck. This is where Physiotherapy comes in.

Here at Mundaring and Hills Physiotherapy, our Physios see many cervicogenic headaches and with some targeted therapy, can help resolve these headaches. By addressing the source of the symptoms (the neck), the headache soon after begins to resolve. Treatment options often involve: cervical (neck) mobilisations, addressing muscle length issues, re-training poor postural positions and movements, and developing strength to prevent future episodes

If you would like more information, or to see one of our physios, feel free to book in at Mundaring and Hills Physiotherapy today!