Cervicogenic Headache: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?

Cervicogenic headache, or cervical headache, is a type of headache which originates from the neck but the pain is felt in the head or a part of the face. This type of headache often resembles other types of head pain, such as migraines or tension headaches, which can also occur with neck pain. This similarity in symptoms can lead to confusion and misdiagnosis, making cervicogenic headaches a commonly overlooked and underdiagnosed condition. However, it's crucial to distinguish them, as cervicogenic headaches are treatable and can be relieved effectively with appropriate intervention

Cervicogenic Headache Symptoms

Cervical headaches can have a variety of symptoms, including:

Pain

The most prominent symptom is a headache, typically one-sided, but it can affect both sides of the head. The pain is often described as a dull, aching sensation.

Neck Pain

Pain originating in the neck is a distinctive feature of cervicogenic headaches. It may radiate from the neck to the head and is often located at the base of the skull or upper neck.

Limited Range of Motion 

People with cervicogenic headaches may experience stiffness and reduced mobility in the neck. This can make it difficult to turn or tilt the head.

Shoulder Pain 

Some individuals may also experience shoulder pain or discomfort on the same side as the headache.

Also, Read - Shoulder Pain: Types, Causes and Treatment

Pain Triggers

Certain movements or positions of the neck can trigger or worsen the headache. For example, tilting the head backward or maintaining a fixed neck position for an extended period may exacerbate the pain.

Headache Duration

Cervicogenic headaches can last for hours or even days and may be continuous or intermittent.

Accompanying Symptoms

While cervicogenic headaches primarily involve head and neck pain, they may be associated with symptoms such as dizziness or nausea, similar to other types of headaches.

Cervicogenic Headache Causes

Cervical headaches can arise from various factors related to the cervical spine. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective management. Here are some common triggers.

Degenerative Changes in Neck Joints

Degeneration in the neck joints, such as osteoarthritis, can contribute to cervicogenic headaches. The wear and tear on the joints over time may lead to pain and discomfort.

Issues with Discs in the Cervical Spine

Problems with the discs in the cervical spine can be a significant cause of cervicogenic headaches. Disc-related issues can result in pain that radiates to the head.

Whiplash Injury or Neck Trauma

Trauma to the neck, particularly from incidents like whiplash, is a known cause of cervicogenic headaches. The impact on the neck can trigger pain that manifests as headaches.

Muscle Spasms in the Neck

Spasms in the neck muscles can contribute to cervicogenic headaches. Tension and tightness in the muscles may lead to pain that extends to the head.

Poor Neck Posture over Prolonged Periods

Maintaining an improper neck posture for extended periods can strain the cervical spine, leading to cervicogenic headaches. Being mindful of posture is crucial in preventing such issues.

Cervicogenic Headache Diagnosis

When individuals experience headaches, it can be challenging to ascertain whether they are dealing with cluster headaches (CH). A medical professional will conduct a thorough examination and inquire about the patient's health, including details about the activities triggering the pain and the specific location of discomfort.

Patients are advised to communicate certain details to the cervicogenic headache doctors, such as whether the headache worsens over time, if there are accompanying symptoms like fever or a rash, or if there has been any head trauma. These factors could indicate underlying health issues that require attention.

Immediate medical attention is crucial if the headache suddenly becomes severe, is accompanied by a stiff neck, or if dizziness occurs.

To delve deeper into the nature of the headaches, medical practitioners may employ diagnostic tools such as:

• X-ray: Utilising small doses of radiation to create images of the bones in the patient's neck and spine.
• Computerised Tomography (CT) Scan: Involves taking multiple X-rays from different angles and synthesising them to provide a more comprehensive view than a single X-ray.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan: Uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of the patient's head, neck, and spine.

Cervicogenic Headache Treatment

Treatments for cervicogenic headaches focus on eliminating the cause of the pain. Cervical headache treatments vary depending on the individual and the severity of their symptoms.

Some treatments for cervicogenic headaches include:

Medications to Treat Cervicogenic Headaches

A specialist who can treat pain recommends pain relievers to relieve painful or uncomfortable symptoms. The following medicines are used to treat cervicogenic headaches:

• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
• Muscle relaxant drugs..
• Anticonvulsant medicines.
• Antidepressants..

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is frequently used as the initial treatment for cervicogenic headaches. A physical therapist will determine the source of the discomfort during the initial appointment. They then stimulate soft tissues and adjust joints to alleviate pain sensations.

 Nerve Blocks

The area around the injection site is numbed using a local anaesthetic. The doctor will then place a needle into the area with the assistance of an ultrasound, fluoroscope, CT scan, or simulator to guide the needle and distribute the drug to the correct location.

Radio Frequency Ablation 

Chronic headache sufferers may benefit from radiofrequency ablation. This method, also known as radiofrequency neurolysis, employs radio waves to heat the tip of a needle.

The doctor then inserts the needle into the nerve that is causing the pain. Heat from the needle effectively numbs the nerve and disrupts the nerve's ability to send pain signals to the brain.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) 

TENS devices use small electrodes that the doctor attaches to the skin and send small electrical signals to stimulate the nerves near the source of the pain.

Neuromodulation

Neuromodulation is a surgical procedure that involves attaching electrodes to the back of the head or neck.

When these electrodes are connected to a pulse genrator by a thin wire, these electrodes stimulate the occipital nerve, which extends from the top of the neck to the spinal cord to the head.

Home Remedies for Cervicogenic Headache Treatment

Specific workouts and alternative treatments may also aid with pain reduction, including headaches. This includes:

• Deep breathing techniques.
• Yoga or meditation.
• Relaxation regimes.

Lifestyle Changes

• Regulation of the sleep cycle.
• Modifying workplace ergonomics.

Psychology Input

• Relaxation therapy.
• Biofeedback.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy.

Cervicogenic Headache Complications

Some possible complications of cervicogenic headaches are:

• Chronic Pain: Cervicogenic headaches can become chronic, causing persistent and long-term discomfort that significantly impacts a person's quality of life.
• Increased Headache Frequency: The frequency of cervicogenic headaches may increase over time, leading to more frequent and severe episodes of head and neck pain.
• Impaired Functionality: The pain and reduced range of motion associated with cervicogenic headaches can limit a person's ability to perform daily activities, such as work, exercise, and even simple tasks like turning the head.
• Muscle Tension: Chronic cervicogenic headaches can lead to muscle tension and stiffness in the neck and shoulder regions, further exacerbating the pain.
• Mood and Sleep Disturbances: Ongoing pain and discomfort can affect a person's mood and sleep patterns, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cervicogenic headaches, often misdiagnosed and left untreated, can lead to debilitating pain and complications. Recognising the symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial. Max Hospitals provides specialised care, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment options to alleviate cervicogenic headache discomfort. Don't let this condition limit your life; reach out to Max Hospitals for expert support, restoring your comfort and well-being.