Cervicogenic Headache - Diagnosis & Treatment

How is a cervicogenic headache diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a cervicogenic headache typically involves:

  • Medical history and symptom review with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms, headache patterns, and any potential triggers.
  • Physical and neurological examination to assess neck mobility, muscle tenderness, and neurological function.
  • Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate the structure of the cervical spine and identify any abnormalities.
  • Diagnostic injections such as diagnostic nerve blocks or injections to confirm the source of pain.

How is a cervicogenic headache treated?

Treatment for cervicogenic headaches focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. This may include:

  • Medications such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage pain and inflammation.
  • Physical therapy, which involves exercises and therapies to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility.
  • Manual therapy such as massage to relieve muscle tension and improve joint function.
  • Lifestyle modifications such as stress management, ergonomic adjustments, and incorporating regular exercise and stretching into your routine.
  • Injections such as corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Surgery may be required to address severe structural issues in the cervical spine, though this is not a common occurrence.
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