Cervicogenic headaches are a type of headache that originates in the neck and radiates pain to the head. Imagine dealing with constant headaches that start in your neck and travel up to your temples, impacting your ability to focus at work, enjoy your hobbies, or even relax. This situation is precisely what Sarah (not her real name) experienced. As an office worker, Sarah spent long hours at her desk, leading to tension in her neck muscles that triggered relentless headaches. The pain affected her productivity and kept her from enjoying her favorite pastime—hiking. If you can relate to Sarah’s struggles, you might be dealing with cervicogenic headaches too.
Ready to get started with physical therapy for cervicogenic headaches? Call our Preferred Physical Therapy Associates clinic today to learn more!
Understanding Cervicogenic Headaches and Their Causes
Cervicogenic headaches are caused by issues in the cervical spine (the neck). According to medical experts, the pain typically starts in the neck but is felt in the head. Common symptoms include neck stiffness, reduced range of motion, and pain that radiates from the neck to the forehead, temples, or around the eyes. These headaches are often mistaken for migraines or tension headaches, but the root cause lies in the cervical spine.
Common Causes of Cervicogenic Headaches:
Poor Posture
- Poor posture, especially from prolonged sitting or desk work, can strain the neck muscles and contribute to cervicogenic headaches.
Neck Injuries
- Such as whiplash or falls that damage the cervical spine.
Degenerative Conditions
- Like arthritis, which can affect the neck’s joints.
Muscle Tension
- Triggered by stress, leading to tightness in the neck and shoulders.
Nerve Compression
- Pinched nerves in the neck can also cause referred pain to the head.
How Physical Therapy Can Help You Find Relief from Cervicogenic Headaches
Physical therapy is highly effective in treating cervicogenic headaches by addressing the underlying neck issues causing the pain. When Sarah began her physical therapy journey, she noticed significant improvements in her symptoms and overall quality of life.
What to Expect with Physical Therapy: Sarah’s Journey
Manual Therapy
- Hands-on techniques help relieve tension in the neck muscles and improve joint mobility. Sarah found this particularly beneficial as it targeted the root cause of her headaches.
Postural Training
- Physical therapists guide you through exercises that correct poor posture and reduce strain on the neck. Sarah’s therapist helped her adjust her workspace and taught her exercises to maintain better posture throughout the day.
Strengthening Exercises
- These exercises focus on building the muscles that support the cervical spine, reducing the likelihood of future headaches. Sarah’s routine included targeted exercises that helped her regain strength and stability in her neck.
Education and Prevention
- Sarah’s physical therapist provided her with strategies to avoid triggers that could cause her headaches, empowering her to take control of her pain management.
Take Control of Your Cervicogenic Headaches with Physical Therapy
If you’re experiencing persistent headaches that seem to stem from your neck, it’s time to consider physical therapy. By addressing the root causes of cervicogenic headaches, physical therapy offers a non-invasive, effective solution that can help you reclaim your life. Whether improving your posture, strengthening your neck muscles, or relieving tension, our team is here to provide personalized care for your needs.
Call our Preferred Physical Therapy Associates team to learn how we can help you with cervicogenic headaches!
