headaches

Cervicogenic Headache

Cervicogenic headache is a type of secondary headache that originates from issues in the cervical spine (neck). It is distinct from other headaches because its source is a neck-related condition. The pain begins in the neck and extends to the head.

Pain Location: Typically felt on one side of the head but can be bilateral. It starts at the back of the head and may spread to the front or near the eyes.

Neck Involvement: Often accompanied by neck stiffness, discomfort, or pain. Movements of the neck frequently trigger or worsen the headache.

Pain Quality: The headache is usually dull, aching, or throbbing, and can be persistent or recur regularly.

Triggers: Movement of the neck, awkward head positions, or pressure on the neck can provoke the headache.

Associated Symptoms: Some individuals experience symptoms like those of migraines, such as nausea or light sensitivity, though these are less common in cervicogenic headaches.

Common Causes:

Cervical Spine Disorders: Herniated discs, osteoarthritis, or cervical spondylosis.

Muscle Strain: Injury or strain of the neck muscles and surrounding tissues.

Nerve Compression: Pinched nerves in the cervical region.

Trauma: Neck trauma, including whiplash injuries.

Diagnosis is typically based on a physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to determine the underlying cervical spine issues.

Signs and Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headaches:

Cervicogenic headaches result from conditions that irritate the pain-sensitive nerves in the head, primarily due to dysfunction in the neck's cervical joints. 

Symptoms include:

• Unilateral head pain (usually one-sided), radiating from the neck to the head and face
• Pulsating or sharp pain near the eye, forehead, or back of the head
• Severe neck discomfort or limited neck movement
• Dizziness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Nausea, vomiting
• Difficulty concentrating or functioning normally
• Depression

Additional Information:

Cervicogenic headaches can be confused with migraines or tension headaches. They arise from dysfunction or injury in the upper three cervical spine areas: the Atlanto-Occipital joint (O-C1), Atlanto-Axial joint (C1-2), and the C2-3 joint. This dysfunction can sensitize the brainstem, particularly the Trigemino-Cervical Nucleus (TCN), leading to chronic headaches, sometimes mimicking migraine symptoms.