Not every headache starts in the head. Some headaches are related to structures in the neck and are known as cervicogenic headaches. These headaches can develop when the joints, muscles, or nerves of the upper cervical spine contribute to referred pain toward the head.
Understanding possible neck-related triggers can help you recognize when a physical therapy evaluation may be appropriate.
A cervicogenic headache is a type of headache associated with a problem or dysfunction in the cervical spine. Pain may begin around the neck or back of the head and spread toward the forehead, temple, or area around one eye.
The pain is often felt more on one side, although symptoms can vary.
Several factors may contribute to neck-related headache symptoms, including:
– Prolonged poor or uncomfortable neck positioning
– Limited neck mobility
– Muscle tension around the neck and shoulders
– Sustained desk or computer work
– Repetitive neck movements
– Previous neck injury
– Reduced strength or coordination of the cervical muscles
These factors do not automatically mean a headache is cervicogenic. A proper assessment is important because headaches can have many different causes.
The upper neck contains joints, muscles, and nerves that communicate with structures involved in head and facial sensation.
When the neck is irritated or movement is restricted, pain signals from the cervical region can sometimes be perceived in the head. This is one reason neck movement and posture may be relevant when evaluating certain headaches.
A cervicogenic headache may be associated with:
– Neck pain or stiffness
– Headache that changes with neck movement
– Reduced neck range of motion
– Pain that starts near the back of the head
– One-sided head or neck discomfort
– Headaches after prolonged sitting or computer use
These symptoms can overlap with other headache conditions, so they should not be used for self-diagnosis.
Physical therapy can assess the relationship between your neck movement, posture, muscle function, and headache symptoms.
Depending on the evaluation, treatment may include:
– Gentle cervical mobility exercises
– Manual therapy
– Neck and upper-back strengthening
– Postural education
– Movement retraining
– Personalized home exercises
The goal is to improve comfortable movement and address contributing musculoskeletal factors when appropriate.
At Health Plus Physical Therapy, treatment is individualized to your symptoms, mobility, strength, and functional goals. If your headaches appear connected with neck movement or persistent neck discomfort, a professional evaluation can help determine whether physical therapy may be appropriate.
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– Location: 2114 Oak Tree Rd, Edison, NJ 08820
A cervicogenic headache is a headache associated with a problem or dysfunction in the neck. Pain may begin in the neck or back of the head and spread toward other areas of the head.
Irritation or restricted movement in the upper cervical joints, muscles, or related structures can contribute to pain that is perceived in the head.
Physical therapy may help improve neck mobility, muscle function, posture, and movement when musculoskeletal factors are contributing to the headaches.
Consider an evaluation if headaches are repeatedly associated with neck pain, stiffness, reduced neck movement, or symptoms that change with neck movement.