It’s quite normal to suffer from headaches from time to time, however, when headaches are frequent and intense, they can be extremely debilitating. The pain related with a cervicogenic headache is usually a steady ache or a dull feeling in one side of the neck, head and face, but the intensity of the pain can grow over time, making normal daily activities a struggle.
What is a cervicogenic headache? What are the causes?
Cervicogenic headaches (CGH) are a secondary headache from pain that radiates upward from the cervical spine (neck). This type of headache can be difficult to diagnose as the pain isn’t always felt in the neck and oftentimes, the symptoms felt can be similar to those of a migraine or a tension headache.
CGH may start as an intermittent pain, triggered by sudden movements (for example, from coughing or sneezing), pressure on the back of the neck or abnormal movements of the neck, but over time may develop into an intense and continuous pain. This pain will usually affect one side of the neck and head, but occasionally, both sides may be affected.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain that radiates from the back of the neck to the forehead, eye, temple and ear
- Noticeably reduced flexibility of the neck
- Blurred vision and eye swelling on the affected side
- Pains along the shoulder and arm on the affected side.
There can be many underlying causes of cervicogenic headaches, such as injury or trauma, poor posture, sleeping or sitting in an awkward position for a prolonged time, conditions such as arthritis, and even anxiety and stress. One or more of the facets of the cervical spine could be primary sources of CGH pain, and all are interconnected, so an injury to one area is likely to affect surrounding areas of the neck. Causes can include:
- Trauma to the facet joints as a result of dislocation or fracture
- Rheumatoid arthritis of the facet joihnts
- Whiplash injury
- Herniated disc
- Normal age related degeneration of the cervical spine, such as osteoarthritis
- Cancer or benign tumours in the cervical region that put pressure on the cervical spine nerves
How osteopathy may help treat cervicogenic headaches
Osteopaths believe that the whole body is interconnected and seek to treat the underlying physical conditions that may be connected to the symptoms of migraines experienced. Through manual therapy, we work to relax areas of tension in the body to allow for better movement, circulation and drainage of body fluids, helping the body’s natural healing processes.
During an initial consultation, we take a detailed medical history and assess your body to better understand your symptoms and find the root cause of pain. Osteopathic treatment for cervicogenic headaches seeks to:
- Prevent painful muscle spasms
- Restore mobility and function
- Promote natural healing
- Release tension and blockages triggering headaches
- Improve circulation of blood
- Improve circulation of the lymphatic system
- Release oxygen blockages caused by hypertension
Whilst every patient is different, we will regularly focus on relieving tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, as well as the jaw and base of the skull. We may also look at posture and other imbalances in the body that may have occurred as a result of growth, illness, lifestyle or habit.
Arrange an Osteopathic consultation
If you are experiencing incapacitating headaches, we can provide a tailored personal consultation and treatment plan to help you.
To arrange an appointment, call our Halesowen Practice on 0121 585 8555, or our Wombourne Practice on 01902 894 894.
