The recognition that many headaches are related to or affected by dysfunction of the neck is finally becoming acknowledged by the medical profession. The term Cervicogenic to explain a headache originating from the neck was first used in 1983 but the first recorded notion dates back to 1860.

Dysfunction of the neck can occur for many reasons. These include trauma such as whiplash injury, tension from stress, neck strain at birth, and work related strain such as long hours of computer use. Also pregnancy, postural strain and inherited family traits.

Problems arising from the neck can lead to other symptoms:

• Vertigo
• Nausea
• Earache and / or tinnitus
• Visual disturbance
• Weeping of the eye or flickering of the eyelid
• Facial pain
• Jaw ache and / or hypersensitive teeth
• Neck and back pain
• Mood swings
• Altered sensation such as pins and needles
• Voice changes
• Recurrent sore and dry throats
• Sinus disorders
• Heartburn and acid reflux indigestion

It is estimated that in up to 20% of chronic headache sufferers the condition arises in the neck. The ratio is of 4:1 female disposition and the average age of sufferers is 42.9 years of age.  There is no specific pathology on imaging either on X-ray or MRI other than expected age related changes (Cochrane database systematic review. 2004 ;(3):CD001878).

Short courses of prescribed or over the counter medication can greatly assist in the management of occasional and short term headache symptoms with little side effects. Long term reliance on this same medication can lead to more serious problems. After all, the medication is not a headache cure merely short term relief from pain.

The Cervicogenic Headache Clinic offers an intensive functional rehabilitation programme providing a comprehensive approach to managing headaches arising from dysfunction of the neck by releasing trapped nerves. Find out more...

See also:

• Children & headaches
• Women & headaches
• Men & headaches