Headaches can have many origins, but when neck pain radiates upward to the back of the head or temples, it may point to a cervicogenic headache. Unlike tension or migraine headaches, this type stems from problems in the neck’s bones, joints, or muscles, rather than from the brain itself. Poor posture, injury, or degenerative changes in the cervical spine can all trigger this type of pain.Notably, research indicates that cervicogenic headaches make up about 15-20% of all chronic headache cases, highlighting how common this condition is among persistent head pain sufferers. Understanding the cervicogenic headache causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for finding lasting relief. If the pain becomes severe or chronic, the experienced medical team at the Harlingen emergency room is available 24/7 to provide expert evaluation, advanced neck pain management, and fast headache relief. Their dedicated physicians can identify the root cause and deliver personalized treatment to help you recover comfortably and safely.
What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?
A cervicogenic headache is a secondary headache, meaning it originates from a problem elsewhere, specifically, the cervical spine (neck region). When nerves or structures in the neck become irritated or inflamed, they can refer pain to the head, typically on one side.
The discomfort often begins in the back of the head or upper neck and may radiate toward the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes. This pain is generally steady rather than throbbing and can worsen with neck movement or pressure.
Cervicogenic Headache Location and Duration
Pain from a cervicogenic headache typically starts on one side of the neck or the base of the skull. From there, it may spread upward to the back of the head, behind one eye, or toward the temple. Some patients describe the sensation as a deep, dull ache rather than a sharp or pulsating pain.
Episodes can last for several hours to days. However, if the underlying neck condition remains untreated, the headaches may become chronic and occur more frequently over time.
Cervicogenic Headache Symptoms
Recognizing cervicogenic headache symptoms can help distinguish this condition from migraines or tension headaches. The pain is often linked directly to neck movement or posture. Common symptoms include:
- Steady, one-sided pain that begins in the neck and spreads to the head.
- Stiffness or limited range of motion in the neck.
- Pain that worsens with neck movement or sustained positions.
- Tenderness at the base of the skull or upper neck.
- Pain radiating toward the eye, temple, or forehead.
- Occasional dizziness or unsteadiness.
- Light sensitivity or blurred vision (less common).
- Shoulder or upper back discomfort accompanying the headache.
If neck pain and headaches persist or are associated with numbness, weakness, or coordination issues, medical evaluation is essential to rule out nerve or spinal complications.
What Causes Cervicogenic Headaches
Understanding cervicogenic headache causes is key to proper diagnosis and effective treatment. These headaches usually arise from problems in the neck’s joints, muscles, nerves, or vertebrae. Common causes include:
- Neck injuries (Whiplash or Trauma): Sudden neck movement or strain can irritate nerves and joints, leading to referred pain in the head.
- Poor posture: Long periods of looking down at phones or computers put stress on the cervical spine, triggering chronic muscle tension and headaches.
- Arthritis (Cervical Osteoarthritis): Degeneration of neck joints or discs can cause inflammation and pressure on nerves that radiate to the head.
- Nerve compression: Pinched nerves in the upper cervical spine can cause pain radiating from the neck into the scalp or around the eyes.
- Muscle tension and strain: Tight neck or shoulder muscles, often from stress or repetitive movements, can restrict blood flow and increase pressure.
- Structural abnormalities: Issues like herniated discs or misaligned vertebrae may disrupt normal movement and cause recurring head pain.
Identifying the exact cause through proper imaging and examination is essential for creating a targeted treatment plan.
Diagnosing a Cervicogenic Headache
Since cervicogenic headaches can resemble other headache types, diagnosis usually requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider. A doctor or physical therapist will review your medical history, posture, and lifestyle habits while performing a physical examination of your neck and upper spine.
Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans may be ordered to identify structural issues like arthritis, disc degeneration, or nerve compression. In some cases, diagnostic nerve blocks — temporary anesthetic injections in the neck, are used to confirm the pain’s source. If the headache subsides after a targeted injection, it’s a strong indicator that the pain is cervicogenic in nature.
Cervicogenic Headache Treatments
Managing cervicogenic headaches involves addressing the underlying neck problem rather than just masking the pain. Here are the most common cervicogenic headache treatments recommended by healthcare professionals:
Physical Therapy
A key part of cervicogenic headache treatment, physical therapy focuses on improving neck strength, flexibility, and posture. Gentle stretches, manual therapy, and strengthening exercises can relieve pressure on irritated nerves and joints.
Medication
Medications can help control pain and inflammation. These may include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Muscle relaxants to reduce neck muscle tension.
- Nerve pain medications (like gabapentin) in chronic cases.
- Corticosteroid injections to relieve inflammation near the affected nerves
Nerve Blocks and Injections
If pain persists, your doctor may recommend targeted nerve blocks or facet joint injections. These treatments temporarily interrupt pain signals from the affected nerves, offering significant relief and helping confirm the diagnosis.
Chiropractic or Manual Therapy
In some cases, spinal manipulation or gentle mobilization by a qualified chiropractor or physiotherapist can restore neck mobility and reduce muscle tension.
Posture Correction and Ergonomic Changes
Adjusting your workstation, maintaining proper head alignment, and taking regular breaks can significantly reduce strain on the cervical spine.
Advanced Medical Options
For chronic or severe cases, other cervicogenic headache treatments may include radiofrequency ablation, which uses heat to deactivate pain-transmitting nerves, or surgical options if structural abnormalities are found.
Finding Long-Term Relief from Cervicogenic Headaches
Living with cervicogenic headaches can be frustrating, especially when pain becomes constant or disrupts your ability to focus and move comfortably. Maintaining good posture, staying physically active, and practicing daily neck stretches can help reduce recurrence. Using supportive pillows, avoiding prolonged screen time, and keeping stress under control are also important preventive measures.
If headaches persist or worsen despite self-care, professional medical attention is recommended. Chronic pain may signal underlying spinal or nerve issues that require advanced evaluation. The compassionate medical team at emergency care is available 24/7 to provide expert diagnosis, targeted cervicogenic headache treatment, and relief for acute or chronic head and neck pain. With timely care, you can restore comfort, improve mobility, and prevent headaches from recurring.