Cervicogenic headache is a type of headache that originates from the neck (Cervical spine) and
is usually unilateral (one-sided). It is a common chronic and recurrent headache that usually
starts after neck movements. Oftentimes, the headache is associated with a reduced and painful
neck range of motion. It is caused by dysfunction in the cervical spine such as increased muscle
tension in the sub-occipital (small cervical muscles attaching to the back of the skull) and
cervical muscles including the Upper Trapezius, Levator Scapulae and at times, in the
Sternocleidomastoid muscle (if a person clenches his/her jaw intentionally or unintentionally).
It can also be caused due to cervical joint dysfunction or disc degeneration between the
vertebrae in the neck. Cervicogenic headaches often feel like a dull, aching pain that radiates
from the neck and into the head. They may also be accompanied by neck stiffness and
tenderness in the cervical muscles. Treatment for cervicogenic headaches typically involves
physiotherapy where a physiotherapist does an assessment and evaluation of your neck and
creates an individualized treatment plan to reduce the pain, tension, and tightness of the
cervical muscles and may also use pain management techniques such as heat therapy, ice
therapy, ultrasound, TENS/IFT (Electrical Stimulation) for muscle relaxation, and exercises to
improve the range of motion and strength of neck muscles. If you think that you suffer from
cervicogenic headaches, please call Zenith Physiotherapy at 905-287-0008 and let one of their
experienced physiotherapist do your thorough assessment and evaluation to assist you in
decreasing your symptoms.