Meet Sarah (not her real name), a dedicated office worker, who struggled with persistent headaches from neck pain that radiated to her temples. The discomfort affected her ability to focus on work and enjoy her favorite hobby, hiking. Determined to find relief, Sarah turned to physical therapy, seeking a way to manage her neck pain and get back to the activities she loved.
What is a Cervicogenic Headache?
Cervicogenic headaches, a specific type of headaches from neck pain, originate from issues in the cervical spine (neck). These headaches are pain that starts in the neck and radiates to the head.
Signs of Cervicogenic Headaches
Neck Pain and Stiffness
- Persistent discomfort and limited range of motion in the neck is a common symptom. Sarah complained of stiffness in her neck, especially after long hours at her desk.
Head Pain
- Dull, aching pain that starts at the base of the skull and may spread to the forehead or temples. Sarah described her headaches as a constant pressure at the back of her head, making concentrating difficult.
Shoulder Tension
- Tightness and discomfort in the shoulders and upper back can also be a symptom. Sarah noticed tension build up in her shoulders throughout the day, exacerbating her headache symptoms.
Headache Triggers
- Activities that worsen neck pain include prolonged sitting, poor posture, or repetitive neck movements. Sarah realized that her headaches often flared up after hours hunched over her computer screen.
Contributing Factors to Headaches
Poor Posture
- Slouching or maintaining an incorrect posture for extended periods can strain the muscles and joints in the neck, leading to headaches. Sarah acknowledged that her posture at work was a major contributor to her headaches and neck pain.
Muscle Imbalances
- Weakness or tightness in specific neck muscles can disrupt proper alignment and contribute to headache symptoms.
Trauma or Injury
- Previous neck injuries, such as whiplash from car accidents or sports-related trauma, can increase the risk of developing cervicogenic headaches.
How Physical Therapy Can Help You Find Relief from Headache from Neck Pain
Physical therapy offers a comprehensive approach to treating cervicogenic headaches by addressing the underlying issues in the neck. Our skilled therapists will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
Sarah’s Physical Therapy Journey: Techniques & What to Expect
Manual Therapy
- Hands-on techniques, including joint mobilizations and soft tissue manipulation, helped improve neck mobility and alleviate muscle tension. Sarah felt immediate relief after her therapist performed manual therapy techniques during her sessions.
Therapeutic Exercises
- Sarah diligently performed customized exercises targeting neck muscles to improve her strength, flexibility, and posture. She noticed a gradual improvement in her headaches and neck pain.
Postural Correction
- Sarah learned ergonomic principles and adjusted her workstation to promote better posture.
Pain Management Techniques
- Sarah found relief from her headache symptoms with the help of pain management techniques incorporated into her treatment plan.
Take Control of Your Headaches and Neck Pain
If you’re struggling with the debilitating effects of cervicogenic headaches, don’t suffer in silence. Seek help from our experienced physical therapy team to find relief and reclaim your quality of life. Call our team at Preferred Physical Therapy Associates in Deerfield Beach, FL today to learn how we can help you overcome headaches and neck pain.
