Headaches are a common complaint throughout the world and are frequently not well understood or treated. There are many kinds of headaches, and while some can be relieved through more simple means, such as increasing water intake and getting better sleep, others require more focused treatments.
Many people suffer with what is known as ‘Cervicogenic headaches.’ This is just a medical term for headaches that are originating in your upper neck, or ‘cervical spine.’ The causes can vary from weakness in the muscles of the neck, keeping your head in certain postures for too long, or just general stiffness. These headaches can also frequently be misdiagnosed as migraines, and while the symptoms can be similar if a cervical headache is severe, the treatment will be different.
People who suffer from cervicogenic headaches are typically people who are maintaining certain head positions for too long. Lawyers, students, receptionists, etc., anyone who works long hours at a desk and looks down at books or computers are more at risk of developing cervicogenic headaches. With that being said, anyone can suffer from them, so if you think this may apply to you regardless of profession don’t hesitate to seek care!
The Physical Therapists at Body Structure can evaluate and assess your symptoms to determine the cause of your headaches. Once that is determined, they can use various treatments to help relieve your pain and symptoms and get you back to living your best life. These treatments can include manual therapy, spinal manipulation therapy, dry needling, and exercise to improve function and strength in your neck and treat the root cause of the problem. Stop living in pain, come to Body Structure and begin living your best life.
Information brought by Dr. Nicholas Boland
