The Term ‘Cervicogenic’ simply refers to the cervical spine, which is part of your spine located near the base of the skull and the nerves, joints and soft tissue of the upper neck can refer pain directly into the head. This means that you perceive the pain to be coming from your head, but in actual fact it is coming from your neck.
Commonly this is misdiagnosed as a ‘migraine’ and medication is prescribed to try and alleviate the symptoms, however cervicogenic headaches are treatable through physiotherapy techniques with quick and effective results.
Symptoms of cervicogenic headaches can include dull aching in the forehead or one side of the head, pain radiating into the temples, eyes or eyebrows and pain that worsens throughout the day or with neck movements. These symptoms are often associated with poor posture, repetitive strain (i.e. regular computer work or driving), inappropriate pillows in bed, degenerative conditions associated with the ageing process and stress. Along with head or neck pain, symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, blurred vision and feeling pain down one or both arms. The neck can also become very stiff and movement can become restricted.
There is an abundance of research and evidence to support the effectiveness of physiotherapy in treating headaches. At Sano Physiotherapy we carry out an in-depth assessment to find the source of your referred pain and we use a wide range of hands-on techniques to treat your symptoms (i.e. passive mobilisations to the joints, massage of tight muscles and acupuncture). We also work with you to prevent the problem re-occurring and use posture correction techniques, ergonomic assessment and advice and specific strengthening or stretching exercises to improve muscle balance and control.
At Sano Physiotherapy, our physiotherapists are fully qualified and are members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and the Health Care Professions council (HCPC). Our Physiotherapists regularly assess and treat patients suffering with headaches and neck pain. So, if medication prescribed by your GP isn’t helping to reduce or cure your headaches, it may be worth giving us a try!
To see one of the team for headaches or any other physical problem, simply call us today on 0113 2578594 to book your appointment.