Did you recently suffer a work-related injury in your neck? Are you experiencing headaches and migraines, and wondering what it could be?
There’s a chance you may be suffering from a cervicogenic headache. But, what is a cervicogenic headache? And, can it be caused by a neck injury?
Read on to learn everything you need to know about cervicogenic headaches.
Can a Neck Injury Cause a Cervicogenic Headache?
In short, the answer is yes, a neck injury can cause a cervicogenic headache.
Cervicogenic headaches actually arise from problems in the neck, with different conditions triggering this type of pain. For example, a cervicogenic headache may be a result of poor posture, osteoarthritis, whiplash, or other types of neck injuries.
Falling asleep in an awkward position can also strain your neck, causing this type of headache.
What is a Cervicogenic Headache?
So, what is a cervicogenic headache, exactly? Oftentimes, it’s difficult to distinguish between a cervicogenic headache and a migraine, as the two are very similar.
The primary difference between a cervicogenic headache and a migraine is that a migraine is rooted in the brain, whereas a cervicogenic headache is rooted in the neck or base of the skull region.
Also, while some headaches are caused by stress, tiredness, eyestrain, or trauma, cervicogenic headaches are caused by issues with the bones, nerves, or muscles in your neck. Although a cervicogenic headache may result in pain in your head, this is not where the problem starts.
Symptoms of a Cervicogenic Headache
So, how can you tell if you’re suffering from a cervicogenic headache? Here are the top symptoms to look out for:
- Pain on the side of your face or head
- Pain around your eyes
- A stiff neck
- A headache when you perform certain movements or neck postures
- Pain while sneezing or coughing
This type of headache can also result in symptoms that are similar to a migraine, such as noise sensitivity, light sensitivity, blurry vision, or an upset stomach.
Treating and Managing a Cervicogenic Headache
While cervicogenic headaches can be recurrent and debilitating, there are luckily things you can do to manage your pain and prevent further occurrences.
In terms of pain management, you can take over the counter or prescribed medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, corticosteroids, or muscle relaxants.
You can also apply ice or heat to manage your pain, use a neck brace, and avoid activities that worsen the pain. It may also help to wear a neck brace.
To treat your pain, usually, you would need to see a neurologist or a pain management doctor. He or she may recommend physical therapy, or in rare cases, spinal surgery.
To find which treatment method is best for you, it’s very important to schedule an appointment with your workers’ comp doctor.
Are You Ready to Say Goodbye to Your Headaches?
Now that you know more about the cervicogenic headache, it’s time to find the right medical professional if you recognize these symptoms.
Call (888) 590-4030 time to schedule an appointment with an experienced doctor near you and get the pain relief you need. Same-day appointments may be available