Cervicogenic Headache
What is it?
A cervicogenic headache is a headache, or pain experienced in the head or face caused by dysfunction in the muscles and/or joints of the neck. These muscles or joints can refer pain throughout the head, face and neck.
Symptoms commonly associated with Cervicogenic Headache
Symptoms associated with cervicogenic headaches vary, and can be dependent on many factors such as the individual, the tissue structures involved, aggravating factors etc
SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE:
- Pain on one side of the head
- Pain at the front of the head
- Pain at the base of the skull
- Pain behind the eyes
*Possible aggravating factors in cervicogenic headaches are difficult to identify as symptoms can vary greatly.
Contributing Factors associated with Cervicogenic Headache
There are many factors that can contribute to the development of cervicogenic headaches.
MODIFIABLE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
- Poor neck biomechanics and poor movement strategies
- Changes to postural loading, or an increase in prolonged/sustained postures
- Muscle imbalances and strength deficits
- Poor motor patterning
Considerations in the management of Cervicogenic Headaches
SHORT TERM
DIAGNOSE
Diagnosis is a vital part of managing any injury. Not only is it important to determine which structures are responsible for our symptoms, but why they have become symptomatic. Addressing the ‘why’ will ensure adequate recovery and prevention of future injury. Our Geelong Physiotherapists will work with you to ensure an accurate diagnosis of your injury.
EDUCATION
It is important that you have an understanding of your diagnosis, and what strategies are important for acute management, and reduction of future injury risk
MOTOR CONTROL
As a contributor to cervicogenic headache is often deficits in postural strength, endurance, stability, patterns of muscle activation etc., these need to be accurately assessed and improved
MANUAL THERAPIES
Manual therapies include: Soft tissue techniques, dry needling, joint mobilisation / manipulation etc.; these may be used to assist with symptoms
ACTIVITY MODIFICATION
You will often be advised to modify provocative activities to allow tissue recovery
LONG TERM
STRENGTHENING
Strengthening is a vital part of management for neck pain, and as cervicogenic headaches are often caused by muscle/joint dysfunction in the neck, we usually aim to improve strength and control in the neck. This can involve progressions into a gym environment to ensure we are appropriately challenging tissues to strengthen, and improving their tolerance to daily living
REFERRAL
As with any injury, sometimes referral to other professionals is required in the management of cervicogenic headaches. This may include referral for imaging, referral to your GP, or referral pain specialists
SUMMARY
If you have any questions about your headache or neck pain, please do not hesitate to contact us on (03) 5229 3911, email us at info@theinjuryclinic.com.au or book an appointment to see one of our Geelong physiotherapists.
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