Cervicogenic Headache: Could Your Neck Be the Cause?

What is a Cervicogenic Headache?

Cervicogenic headache is a secondary type of headache, which means it’s a symptom of an underlying issue in the neck (cervical spine). This type of headache is often caused by neck pain, muscle strain, or nerve irritation, making it more difficult to treat if the exact cause is unclear.

Symptoms You Might Feel

• A one-sided headache that starts at the base of the skull
• Pain that can radiate to the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes
• Neck stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Pain that intensifies with neck movements
• Occasional nausea, dizziness, or visual disturbances

What Causes Cervicogenic Headaches?

Several issues in the cervical spine can cause cervicogenic headaches:

• Cervical Disc Problems: Degenerative disc disease or herniated discs can cause nerve irritation.
• Muscle Strain: Poor posture, stress, or repetitive movements can trigger tension headaches.
• Neck Joint Dysfunction: Misalignment or joint dysfunction in the neck can put pressure on nerves, causing headaches.
• Whiplash or Injury: An injury to the neck can lead to long-term issues that cause cervicogenic headaches.

Potentially Serious Causes to Be Aware Of

Though cervicogenic headaches are rarely dangerous, they can sometimes be a sign of more severe conditions, including:

• Cervical Artery Dissection: A tear in the arteries of the neck that can cause stroke-like symptoms.
• Spinal Infections or Tumors: While uncommon, these can cause severe pain and may require urgent attention.

Why Imaging is Important

Without clear imaging, treatments for cervicogenic headaches are often based on assumptions, leading to ineffective outcomes. X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds are necessary to identify the root cause of the headache, whether it’s nerve compression, joint dysfunction, or muscle tension.

Imaging provides clarity, allowing for more precise treatments and avoiding unnecessary suffering from poorly targeted therapies.

How We Can Help

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we provide quick, cost-effective imaging services to confirm your diagnosis in as little as one working day. If treatments have been ineffective, we offer a $50 second opinion consultation to help you explore better treatment options.

Why Visit Us?

• Non-invasive treatments to address the root cause of your headache
• Fast, affordable imaging for accurate diagnosis
• Insurance and Medisave options to make treatment affordable

Consider Visiting Us If You Are:

• Fed up with ineffective treatments that haven’t worked
• Looking for fast and clear imaging to understand your diagnosis
• Seeking a second opinion before proceeding with surgery