Cervicogenic Headache Treatment

Cervicogenic Headache Treatment

Cervicogenic headaches are caused when there is a generalized weakness in the muscles of the neck and upper back. This condition can also be a side-effect of poor posture or arthritis. Injuries to the muscles in the neck and upper back from accidents could trigger this condition as well.

At Physiotherapy First, our physiotherapists diagnose and treat cervicogenic headaches using various physiotherapy treatments and services in Brampton. We take the time to uncover the underlying causes for your headaches and treat both the causes and the symptoms using a custom-tailored treatment plan.

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What Are Cervicogenic Headaches?

These types of headaches are different from other headaches as they usually worsen the longer they go untreated. The intensity of the pain is sharper and more intense. Stress and anxiety can also cause trigger cervicogenic headaches.

Unlike migraine headaches that can cause pain in different regions of the head, cervicogenic headaches are specific to one location. When one experiences a cervicogenic headache, they will notice the pain begins at the base of the neck then radiates outward to a specific region in the head.

What Are Some Common Symptoms Of Cervicogenic Headaches?

Aside from the pain caused by the headaches, other common symptoms one may experience could include:

  • Stiffness and soreness in the neck and upper back.
  • Mobility issues turning and moving the head.
  • Muscle spasms in the upper back and neck regions.
  • Problems with one’s vision where images can look blurred or it takes longer to focus.
  • A changing degree of pain that gradually intensifies.
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What Physiotherapy Treatments And Services Can Help Treat Cervicogenic Headaches?

Physiotherapy treatments and services used to treat cervicogenic headaches can and do vary based on the extent of injury and weakness of the upper back and neck region. Some of the more common treatments that can help alleviate the headaches include:

  • Manual Manipulation Therapy – Soft tissue massage and manipulation can be used to help stimulate the muscles and tendons while alleviating discomfort and pain.
  • Exercise Therapy – Specific exercises that help strengthen the muscles in the neck and upper back are often effective at promoting healing and treating cervicogenic headaches.
  • Hot and Cold Therapies – Applying heat and cold to the base of the neck can help alleviate the pain associated with cervicogenic headaches.
  • Electrical Wave Stimulation Therapy – Small electrical impulses can be used to promote healing and improve blood flow to the neck and upper back muscles.
  • Massage Therapy – Massaging the soft tissues in the upper back and neck alleviates tension and stress to reduce the frequency of cervicogenic headaches.
  • Acupuncture – Some patients can benefit from acupuncture treatments of the upper back and neck.

Please keep in mind that the specific treatments and services you need will vary based on your specific needs, cause for the cervicogenic headaches, and other such factors.

Will Physiotherapy Treatments And Services Cure Cervicogenic Headaches?

For non-chronic conditions, where the cervicogenic headaches are caused by muscle weakness or injuries to the upper back and neck, they are curable with physiotherapy treatments and services at Physiotherapy First.

For chronic conditions, like arthritis, ongoing physiotherapy treatments and services can help reduce the frequency and severity of cervicogenic headaches.

 

Why Is Proper Posture Important When Treating Cervicogenic Headaches?

During treatment, you will be taught posture-corrective techniques and methods to help maintain alignment of the upper back, neck, and head. It is important to attempt to keep these aligned when sitting, standing, or even sleeping.

Do so helps alleviate unwanted muscle strain while you heal and recover. When sleeping, you will want to ensure your head and neck are aligned and level whether you sleep on your back, stomach, or side. Your physiotherapist can provide further details and advice on proper posturing techniques and methods.

Why Choose Physiotherapy First For Cervicogenic Headache Treatments?

At Physiotherapy First, your physiotherapist will conduct a detailed examination to determine the causes for your cervicogenic headaches. They will provide you with education about your condition and what sort of treatments and services could benefit you.

They will also encourage you to actively participate in creating your custom-tailored treatment plan. Additionally, our physiotherapists also receive ongoing training and education in the latest techniques and methods used to treat cervicogenic headaches.

To learn more about cervicogenic headaches, how physiotherapy treatments and services can help, or to schedule an initial consultation with one of our Brampton physiotherapists, please feel free to contact Physiotherapy First at 905-796-6662 today!

We look forward to answering your questions about cervicogenic headaches, discussing your health benefits plan coverage, and helping you recover so you can start to feel better.