Cervicogenic headaches result from structural problems in the neck and are often due to problems with vertebrae at the top of the spine, called the cervical vertebrae, and specifically the C2-3 vertebra. Because cervicogenic headaches arise from problems in the neck, different conditions can trigger this type of pain. These include degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis, a prolapsed disc in the neck, or a whiplash injury. A compressed or pinched nerve in or near the neck may be the cause of cervicogenic headaches.
Falling down or playing sports can cause injury to the neck and trigger these headaches. People can also develop cervicogenic headaches after an injury to the neck. This is more commonly called whiplash.
Cervicogenic headaches may also occur due to a person’s posture while sitting or standing at work. Some people develop cervicogenic headaches because they work in jobs that involve them straining their necks. These jobs include hair stylists, manual labourers, and drivers.
For people who work as a driver, carpenter, hairstylist, or someone who sits at a desk, he may unknowingly push his chin forward which moves his head out in front of his body. This is called cervical protraction. Sitting or standing in this position for long periods of time can put pressure or stress on the neck and base of the skull, triggering a cervicogenic headache.
Falling asleep in an awkward position (such as with the head too far to the front or back, or off to one side) can also cause these types of headaches. This can happen if one were to sleep in a chair or while sitting up in bed.
Essentially, some medical conditions that can cause cervicogenic headaches include:
Cervicogenic headaches may have many causes, from abnormalities present at birth to arthritis and trauma.
Treating Cervicogenic headaches
The good news is that, like other headaches, physical therapy and medications can usually ease the pain of cervicogenic headache. The usual drug treatment consists of NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Some patients need antidepressants, sedatives or muscle relaxants. Botulinium toxin (Botox) is used to treat the cervicogenic component of chronic migraine.
