David Lloyd

Headache – Truly A ‘pain in the neck’? What, How, When and Where?

Headaches themselves can be an annoying  problem, literally, a ‘pain in the neck’ for some of us who suffer from them often. Causes range from receiving a bang on the head to poor hydration. But in persistent cases, the neck itself can be involved in headaches more often than is recognised. These types of headaches are called cervicogenic headaches (CGH). What, how, when, where I hear you ask?…read on!

What is this type of headache?

Cervicogenic headache CGH is much less common than other more common forms such as migraine and tension-type headaches, but the presentation can have more of an impact on a person’s quality of life. CGH tends to be one-sided and does not changes sides ,and will fluctuate in frequency. Migraines will typically build up to a crescendo. Medication is usually not much help with CGH.

How do you know it’s coming from the neck?

You may or may not actually have pain in the neck itself, but neck movements may be restricted. Pain can be from the back of the head and go round the side at the ear or on top into the forehead. A skilled physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor should be able to determine if the source of the headache is from the neck.

When could the neck problem have started?

Often this type of problem with the neck arises after trauma – such as whiplash after road traffic accidents or falls. Changes in the neck bones themselves as a result of injury, age or illness can affect the position of the joints, muscles and ligaments and refer pain to the head.

Where do you go for help?

Suffering with persistent headaches? History of whiplash? Firstly, if you are concerned, it is important get yourself thoroughly checked by your doctor. If all is clear from that end and other medication has not been helping after some time, it is possible that the problem may be arising from structures in the neck. A physiotherapist may be able to assess your condition. If the problem is coming from the neck, then treatment may be able to resolve the problem.

Claudia Grant, Physiotherapist