Cervicogenic Headache: Understanding the Cause and Finding Relief

What is Cervicogenic Headache?

A cervicogenic headache is a type of secondary headache caused by an issue in the cervical spine (neck). Unlike primary headaches like migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches originate from problems in the neck such as nerve irritation, muscle tension, or joint dysfunction.

Symptoms You Might Experience

• Pain on one side of the head, often starting in the neck
• Stiffness and limited range of motion in the neck
• Pain that worsens with neck movement or holding certain positions
• Tension in the shoulders and upper back
• Nausea or dizziness in some cases

Common Causes of Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches are typically caused by underlying neck problems, including:

• Cervical Disc Degeneration: Wear and tear on the discs in the neck can lead to nerve compression, resulting in headaches.
• Muscle Tension: Poor posture, stress, or repetitive neck movements can cause muscle tightness, triggering headaches.
• Joint Dysfunction: Misalignment or dysfunction in the neck joints can irritate surrounding nerves, leading to pain.
• Whiplash or Injury: Traumatic injuries can cause long-term neck pain, which may trigger cervicogenic headaches.

Potentially Serious Causes of Headache

While cervicogenic headaches are usually not life-threatening, in rare cases, they can be a sign of more serious conditions like:

• Spinal Tumors or Infections: Though rare, untreated issues in the cervical spine can lead to serious complications.
• Cervical Artery Dissection: A tear in the artery in the neck that can lead to stroke-like symptoms.

Importance of Imaging for Accurate Diagnosis

Without proper imaging like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds, a cervicogenic headache can be misdiagnosed. While clinical examination can provide some clues, imaging is essential for pinpointing the exact cause of the pain, whether it’s nerve impingement, muscle tension, or joint dysfunction.

Without imaging, treatments often become a trial-and-error process, such as painkillers, physiotherapy, or massage, which may not address the root cause. This leads to wasted time, money, and prolonged suffering.

Our Approach to Cervicogenic Headache

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we offer affordable, timely scans that can confirm your diagnosis in under one working day. If your current treatments haven’t been effective, we also offer a $50 second opinion consultation, where we explore practical, non-invasive solutions tailored to your needs.

Why Choose Us?

• Non-invasive treatments that target the root cause of your pain
• Quick, affordable imaging for accurate diagnosis
• Medisave and insurance-friendly fees for eligible patients

Visit Us If You Are:

• Frustrated with treatments that don’t seem to work
• Seeking a fast, clear diagnosis with imaging
• Wanting a second opinion before considering more invasive treatments like surgery