Headache is one of the most common complaints encountered by many people. Headache actually can arise from bony structures or soft tissues of the neck. Cervicogenic headache, is a form of headache and its symptoms closely resembles to migraine.
Causes
- Degenerative (wear & tear) changes of the upper cervical spine - impairment of free movements at the joints, discs or ligaments
- Trigger points in the cervical and shoulder muscles - occurs on the sustained overloading of the muscles
- Whiplash injuries
Symptoms
- deep, throbbing or non-throbbing pain (unilateral or bilateral)
- headache is more localized to front head, rear head & orbital regions
- triggered by neck movements, sustained or awkward neck posture (eg.using computer)
- nausea & vomiting
- blurred vision & dizziness
Treatments
- Manual mobilization-Cervical
- Cold Therapy
- Head therapy (if required)
- Ultrasound
- Neck exercises to give sustained reduction of headaches frequency and intensity