Cervicogenic Headaches – Causes & Treatments

From migraines, to cluster headaches – there are many different types of headaches. Most headaches originate in the head or brain, but this isn’t true in every case. Cervicogenic headaches, for example, are the result of an injury or issue in the neck. Treating these headaches requires a different approach than other headaches. This article will focus specifically on cervicogenic headaches – their causes, symptoms, and options for treatment.

What are Cervicogenic Headaches?

A cervicogenic headache is a headache that stems from an issue in a different part of the body – namely the cervical (neck) spine. This is also sometimes called “referred pain.” Cervicogenic head pain can be caused by a lesion, tissue injury, or nerve issue in the neck. Here are some symptoms of cervicogenic headaches that can help you differentiate them from other types of headaches:

• Pain in the head in addition to the neck
• Numbness or tingling in the neck, back, or extremities
• Pain that keeps coming back when taking over-the-counter meds

Treating Cervicogenic Headaches

As with any condition, treating cervicogenic headaches effectively requires addressing the source of pain. Simply taking over-the-counter NSAIDs for this type of headache will work. You may experience some temporary relief, but the pain is sure to return unless you address the root cause of the pain. That means getting an accurate diagnosis from a spine specialist and treating the related condition with spinal injections, prescription medications, or surgery.

If your headaches are caused by a spinal nerve issue in the cervical spine, a minimally invasive keyhole procedure may help resolve the head pain. Inspired Spine’s innovative surgical procedures are revolutionizing the industry by offering the shortest operating times and quickest recoveries of any spine surgery. Contact us today to learn more about Inspired Spine’s surgical procedures or to find a doctor in your area who performs these procedures.