HEADACHES

What causes headache?

There are different types of headaches and therefore the cause of their onset varies. Types of headache include; cervicogenic headache (originating from the neck), tension headache, migraine and cluster headache. Physiotherapy is effective in the management of cervicogenic headaches. For other types of headaches, medical assessment and management is required.

What is a cervicogenic headache?

A network of nerves called the trigeminocervical nucleus links the upper cervical spine with the head and face area. Through this nerve connection, the neck joints and muscles can cause headache. Cervicogenic headaches normally start from the base of the skull on one side and spread to the eye or the side of the head on the same side. The headache is normally a dull sensation, however it can also have a shooting feeling. It normally lasts a few hours to a few days but can go on for up to a couple of weeks.

What causes cervicogenic headache?

Sustained neck postures such as those held for desk-based or computer-based work can contribute to cervicogenic headache. Many people relate stress or tension to an increase in the intensity of their headache. The most common sufferers of a neck headache are between 20 and 50 years of age. It is more common with people who have had trauma to the neck or degenerative change in the joints of their upper cervical spine.

Can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy is helpful in the management of cervicogenic headache but plays little role in the management of other forms of headache. Axis Physiotherapy can assess you and provide appropriate treatment and advice. Physiotherapy can help through hands-on (manual therapy) to relax the muscles and loosen the joints of the neck. Your physiotherapist can train you on specific exercises to improve the function of the muscles which support the upper cervical spine. Axis Physiotherapists also specialize in ergonomic assessments. Advice on customizing the workstation to the individual can aid in controlling neck headaches.

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