Headaches can be more than just an annoyance—they can throw off your whole day, make it hard to focus, and simply drain your energy. While most people get the occasional headache, some deal with them more often or with more intensity. What many don’t realize is that not all headaches are the same, and understanding the cause can make a huge difference in finding relief.

One commonly overlooked type is a cervicogenic headache—a headache that actually starts in the neck. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, these are triggered by issues in the spine, joints, or muscles of the neck. If you've ever felt a headache that seems to radiate from the base of your skull or gets worse with certain neck movements, your neck could be the culprit. The good news? Once identified, cervicogenic headaches can often be treated effectively with the right approach.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cervicogenic headaches can mimic those of migraines, including nausea, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, and discomfort with loud noises. Additional symptoms may include:

• Pain in the arm, shoulder, or upper back
• Steady pain on one side of the face or head
• Pain lasting for hours or days
• Pain localized to one spot
• A stiff or sore neck

Causes and Contributing Factors

Cervicogenic headaches can stem from various issues, such as:

• Arthritic conditions
• Previous injuries to the neck, head, or jaw (e.g., car accidents)
• Poor posture, particularly forward head positioning while working on computers, phones, or tablets

Daily habits like keeping your head in one position for extended periods can also contribute to these headaches.

Simple Ways to Reduce Headache Triggers

Since cervicogenic headaches often stem from poor posture and repetitive habits, small daily adjustments can make a big difference in preventing pain. Here are some simple but effective changes to help reduce strain on your neck and spine:

• ✔ Take frequent breaks to stretch, especially if you sit for long periods
• ✔ Adjust your screen to eye level to reduce neck strain
• ✔ Keep your mouse and keyboard within easy reach
• ✔ Use a supportive chair and ensure your desk is at the correct height
• ✔ Opt for a headset instead of cradling your phone between your ear and shoulder
• ✔ Practice good posture—your body will thank you!

Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervicogenic Headaches

If your doctor suspects cervicogenic headaches, they will start with a physical exam and review your medical history. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to assess your cervical spine and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment Options

The best treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms. Common approaches include:

• Medications: Pain relievers, NSAIDs, or migraine-specific medications
• Injections: Occipital nerve blocks to reduce nerve-related pain
• Surgery: Reserved for severe cases where structural issues need correction
• Conservative Therapies: Physical therapy, acupuncture, or yoga to address underlying causes

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat cervicogenic headaches at the source. A customized program may include:

• Hands-on therapy to improve mobility in the neck and mid-back
• Targeted exercises to strengthen deep neck muscles and improve posture
• Stretching and strengthening to restore balance and flexibility
• Postural correction to prevent future headaches and reduce strain

By addressing the root cause, physical therapy helps not only relieve pain but also improve overall posture and movement patterns.

If you’re struggling with persistent headaches, our team is here to help. Call us at 865-392-1033 or schedule an appointment online.