A cervicogenic headache occurs when your headache is caused by a neck joint problem. Your neck headache can come from different areas in the neck, including the upper neck joints, upper neck discs, and neck muscles. Your neck and shoulder blade muscles that originate from your neck will cause pain if they are overworking, tight, or in spasm. Your neck muscles work correctly when they have normal length, strength, power, and endurance.
Neck headache sufferers may experience tenderness at the top of their neck and the base of the skull. They may also suffer from neck stiffness or a mild loss of movement.
Other Symptoms Include:
- Your headache can radiate from the back of your head to the front.
- Your headache may be made worse or eased by a neck movement, a sustained position, stomach sleeping, or turning your head to one side.
- Your headache is commonly worse on one side of your head. The side is usually constant and stays on that side.
- Your headache can be eased temporarily when you apply pressure or massage your neck or the base of your skull.
Neck Headache Treatment May Include:
- Stiff neck joints may need to be loosened or unlocked with joint mobilisations or joint traction.
- Hypermobile joints may require specific deep neck muscle strengthening exercises to stabilise, control, and limit the joint movement available.
- Tight or overactive muscles may require stretching, massage, or dry needling techniques.
- Weak muscles may require specific strengthening exercises. This may include your shoulder blade and neck muscles.
- Postural correction may be recommended via specific exercises, postural awareness techniques, and taping.
- Helpful advice on how to prevent neck dysfunction in the future, including postures to avoid.
If you suffer from neck headaches, I can assess you and treat your symptoms at Motion Physio Clinic, Prosperous.
If you need help to get started, call us today at Motion Physio Clinic, Prosperous, Tel: 045 841010.