Cervical
Headache
Headaches can literally be a pain in
the neck. They are frequently caused by joint or muscular dysfunction in the
neck, poor posture, emotional tension or a combination of these. Headaches
originating from or relating to neck dysfunction can be very successfully
treated & prevented by Physiotherapy.
What is a Cervical Headache?
Cervical headaches or cervicogenic
headaches are headaches caused by abnormalities in the cervical (neck and head)
region, the cause is variable as described above. The mechanism of production
of the headache is also variable. It can be referred from the upper cervical
nerve roots, segments of the cervical spine which can irritate some of the
sensory nerves. Headaches can be caused by trigger points in the neck muscles
and head muscles.
Cervical headaches are those that
can be most successfully treated by Physiotherapy. These headaches may present
as:
- Pain
& tension in the neck
- Pain,
ache & pressure in the forehead and back of the head
- Tension
in the temple and jaw area
- Pain
that is made worse with sustained and repeated postures
- (especially
sitting) and movement of the neck
- A
headache with a feeling of light headedness or dizziness
- Pain
usually on the same side of the head as neck pain
How do these headaches present?
Cervical headaches are usually
described as a constant, steady, dull ache. It can be to one side or both
sides. It can be to one side or both sides. It can also feel like a pulling or
gripping feeling, sometimes a tight band around the head. The headache usually
is felt at the base of the skull and can be referred to the front of the head
to the temple area or over and behind the eyes. The headaches usually come on
over a period of time, gradually getting worse. The headaches may be present
for days, weeks even months. Sometimes there may be a history of an acute
trauma such as whip-lash injury or repetitive trauma associated with work or a
sporting activity.
Cervical headaches are often
associated with neck pain and stiffness. They may be aggravated by neck and
head movements. There may be a feeling of light headedness, dizziness, ringing
in the ear and nausea. An inability to concentrate, impaired normal functioning
and depression may also be reported.
Physiotherapy Management
Physiotherapy management requires
assessment and treatment of all the abnormalities found in the joints, muscles
and neural structures. As well as education on posture and work practices.
Postural Assessment and Advice – Education on optimal trunk
posture and postural retraining is vital. Without postural correction cervical
headaches can linger for extended periods.
Mobilization – Stiff joints in the neck
should be mobilised to restore range of movement. Stiffness in the jaw joints
can aslo be problematic and should be mobilised if needed.
Stretching – Stretching of the neck and
shoulder muscles can help alleviate headaches.
Strengthening – cervical muscle retraining
is vital. Your physiotherapist will show you how to retrain your deep neck
muscles to restore the normal muscle balance and recruitment
Stress and tension management – Identification and reduction
of the sources of stress and tension need to be incorporated as this commonly
leads to tightness in the upper back and neck muscles.
Soft tissue work and massage – Your physiotherapist may use
different massage and soft tissue techniques to help the muscles in your neck
and upper back.
Acupuncture – Acupuncture is the placement
of very think needles into specific locations in the body. It is often used to
help alleviate headaches.
Workplace and ergonomic assessment – A poor chair, a desk at the
wrong height or wrong set-up or badly placed computer may result in poor
posture contributing to strain on the neck. Your Physiotherapist can advise on
office and workplace set up, bedding and pillows.
Neural stretching – Abnormal neural tension can
also contribute to cervical headaches. Your physiotherapist will assess this
and provide appropriate stretches as needed
Your physiotherapist will advise you
and provide you with the most appropriate treatment plan and techniques for
you.
Remember
- Seek treatment at an early
stage
- Ensure you physiotherapist
provides you with methods of self treatment and management.
Reference
link:
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