A headache can feel like a problem with your head, but sometimes the source is actually your neck. Cervicogenic headaches are headaches caused by a problem in the cervical spine or the muscles, joints, nerves, or other structures in the neck.
Unlike migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches are considered a type of secondary headache, meaning the headache is a symptom of another underlying condition or injury. The pain may begin in the neck and travel into the back of the head, forehead, face, or around the eyes.
The good news? Cervicogenic headaches are treatable. Identifying what is causing the neck pain is the first step toward finding the right treatment.
What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?
A cervicogenic headache is pain that is felt in the head but originates from the neck. It can develop when structures in the upper cervical spine become irritated or when muscles, joints, or nerves in the neck are affected by an injury or condition.
The upper cervical spine, particularly the joints around the C2 and C3 vertebrae, can play a role in these headaches. Because the nerves in the upper neck connect with areas that also transmit sensation from the head and face, irritation in the neck can sometimes be experienced as head pain.
Cervicogenic headaches can be difficult to distinguish from other common headaches because symptoms may overlap. One clue is that neck pain or stiffness often occurs alongside the headache, and certain neck movements may make the pain worse.
What Does a Cervicogenic Headache Feel Like?
Cervicogenic headache symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause, but common symptoms include:
- Pain that starts in the neck and travels toward the back of the head
- Pain on one side of the head or face
- Neck stiffness or limited neck movement
- Pain that worsens with certain neck movements or positions
- Pain around or behind the eyes
- Pain that may extend into the shoulder or upper back
- Headache that develops after a neck injury, such as whiplash
- Sensitivity to light or sound in some cases
- Nausea in some cases
Because these symptoms can overlap with migraine and tension headaches, recurring headaches should be evaluated by a healthcare professional rather than self-diagnosed.
What Causes Cervicogenic Headaches?
Cervicogenic headaches are usually related to a problem involving the neck. Several conditions or situations can irritate the joints, muscles, nerves, or other structures of the cervical spine.
Neck Injuries
Whiplash and other neck injuries can damage or irritate muscles, joints, nerves, and other tissues in the cervical spine. A cervicogenic headache may develop after a car accident, sports injury, fall, or other trauma.
Neck Strain and Poor Posture
Spending long periods looking down, sitting at a computer, driving, or performing work that keeps your head in one position can put additional stress on the neck. Forward-head posture can also increase the demands placed on the muscles and joints that support the cervical spine.
Changing positions regularly, taking movement breaks, and maintaining good posture can help reduce unnecessary strain.
Arthritis and Degenerative Changes
Arthritis in the cervical spine can affect the joints and surrounding structures, potentially contributing to neck pain and headaches. Age-related changes in the discs and joints of the neck may also contribute to symptoms.
Nerve Irritation
Irritation or compression of nerves in the cervical spine can cause pain that travels from the neck into other areas. Depending on which structures are affected, this pain may contribute to a cervicogenic headache.
Sleep Position
Sleeping with your neck in an awkward position can temporarily strain the muscles and joints of the cervical spine. If headaches consistently occur after sleeping or are accompanied by morning neck stiffness, your sleeping position may be contributing to the problem.
How Is a Cervicogenic Headache Diagnosed?
There is no single test that can confirm every cervicogenic headache. Diagnosis typically begins with a medical history and physical examination.
Your doctor may ask:
- Where does the pain begin?
- Where does the headache travel?
- How long have you experienced the symptoms?
- Do certain neck movements make the headache worse?
- Have you recently experienced a neck or head injury?
- Are you experiencing neck stiffness or limited movement?
- Do you have other symptoms, such as fever, vision changes, dizziness, or weakness?
During the exam, your provider may evaluate your neck's range of motion, check for areas of tenderness, and assess how movement affects your symptoms.
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your provider may also recommend imaging to look more closely at the cervical spine.
In some cases, a nerve block may be used to help determine whether a particular nerve is contributing to the pain. A nerve block can also provide temporary pain relief.
How Do You Treat a Cervicogenic Headache?
Treatment depends on what is causing the headache and how severe your symptoms are. Most people do not need surgery. Treatment may include a combination of medication, activity changes, and other nonsurgical approaches.
Medication
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor may recommend medication to help manage pain or inflammation. This may include over-the-counter or prescription medications.
Talk with your healthcare provider before starting a new medication, particularly if you have other medical conditions or take other medications.
Activity and Posture Changes
If prolonged sitting, driving, computer work, or another activity contributes to your symptoms, changing how you perform that activity may help.
Try to avoid staying in one position for long periods. Take regular movement breaks, adjust your workstation when possible, and pay attention to positions that consistently trigger your neck pain or headaches.
Other Treatments
Some patients may benefit from targeted injections or nerve blocks when conservative treatment does not provide enough relief. These treatments can sometimes help both with diagnosis and symptom management.
Surgery is generally considered only when an underlying spinal condition requires surgical treatment and other appropriate options have not provided relief.
How Long Does a Cervicogenic Headache Last?
There is no set timeline for a cervicogenic headache. Some headaches may improve within hours or days, while others can persist or return if the underlying neck problem is not addressed.
The duration often depends on the cause. A headache related to temporary muscle strain may improve as the neck recovers, while headaches related to an ongoing spinal condition may require more comprehensive treatment.
If headaches are recurring, getting worse, or interfering with your daily life, talk with a healthcare professional about your symptoms.
Can You Prevent Cervicogenic Headaches?
You cannot prevent every cervicogenic headache, particularly when the underlying cause is an injury or degenerative condition. However, some habits may help reduce neck strain and the likelihood of recurring symptoms.
Consider:
- Taking regular breaks from prolonged sitting or screen use
- Maintaining good posture during work and daily activities
- Staying physically active
- Strengthening the neck and upper-back muscles as recommended by a healthcare professional
- Adjusting your workstation to support a neutral neck position
- Avoiding positions that consistently aggravate your symptoms
- Addressing neck injuries promptly
Heat or cold therapy may also provide temporary relief for some types of neck pain. Ask your healthcare provider which approach is appropriate for your symptoms.
When Should You See a Doctor for a Headache?
Most headaches are not caused by a serious condition. However, a new, severe, sudden, or unusual headache should not be ignored.
Seek prompt medical attention if a headache is:
- Sudden and extremely severe
- Associated with a significant head or neck injury
- Accompanied by weakness, numbness, confusion, fainting, or difficulty speaking
- Associated with significant vision changes
- Accompanied by fever or a stiff neck
- Becoming progressively worse or occurring more frequently
You should also talk with your doctor if recurring headaches are affecting your work, sleep, exercise, or daily activities.
Finding Relief From Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headaches can be frustrating, particularly when the source of the pain is not obvious. But because these headaches are often connected to an underlying neck problem, finding and treating the cause can help reduce symptoms and prevent them from becoming a recurring issue.
If you regularly experience headaches along with neck pain or stiffness, don't assume you simply have to live with them. OrthoCarolina's spine specialists can help determine whether your neck may be contributing to your headaches and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Book an appointment easily online today. Expert care is just a click away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a cervicogenic headache and a migraine?
A cervicogenic headache originates from the neck, while a migraine is a neurological condition with its own distinct causes and symptoms. Cervicogenic headaches are often associated with neck pain, stiffness, or reduced neck movement. Because symptoms can overlap, a healthcare professional can help determine the likely cause.
Can poor posture cause cervicogenic headaches?
Poor posture can contribute to neck strain and may play a role in cervicogenic headaches for some people. Prolonged sitting, looking down at a phone, or holding the head in a forward position can increase stress on the neck. Regular movement and postural changes may help reduce that strain.
Can cervicogenic headaches be cured?
Cervicogenic headaches are often treatable, but the appropriate treatment depends on what is causing them. Addressing the underlying neck condition through physical therapy, medication, activity changes, injections, or other treatments may help reduce or eliminate symptoms.
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