What we treat Neck and headaches
Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headaches are secondary headaches, meaning they are caused by an underlying condition in the cervical spine. Typically, these headaches stem from issues with the top three vertebrae (C1, C2, and C3), where nerves and muscles interconnect between the neck and the base of the skull. Stress on these joints refers pain upward to the head, often mimicking the feeling of a migraine or tension-type headache.
Common factors include poor posture during office work, repetitive strain, or past trauma like whiplash. Muscular imbalances, specifically weakness in deep neck flexors and tightness in the suboccipital muscles, further aggravate the nerves, leading to chronic pain cycles.
Recognizing Cervicogenic Symptoms
Pain typically originates at the base of the skull or upper neck, often feeling like a dull ache or stiffness that intensifies with specific movements.
You may notice significant difficulty turning your head to one side or tilting it, accompanied by a feeling of 'locking' in the cervical spine.
Commonly presents as pain on only one side of the head, radiating from the back towards the temple, forehead, or area behind the eye.
Physical Therapy for Headaches
Physical therapy offers a non-invasive, evidence-based approach to managing and resolving headaches. Our specialized interventions focus on identifying the root cause of your pain (whether it stems from cervical spine dysfunction, muscle tension, or postural imbalances) to provide lasting relief and restore your quality of life.
MOBILITY & RELIEF
Safe Exercises for Headaches
STEP 01
Chin Tucks for Stability
Gently pull your chin straight back, as if making a double chin. Keep your eyes level and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times to strengthen deep neck flexors and reduce strain on the upper cervical spine.
STEP 02
Scapular Retractions
Sit tall and squeeze your shoulder blades together and down. Hold for 5 seconds. This exercise helps correct rounded shoulders and upper back posture, which often contributes to cervicogenic headache symptoms.
STEP 03
Gentle Neck Mobility
Slowly rotate your head toward one shoulder until you feel a light stretch. Hold for 2 seconds and switch sides. Maintaining mobility in the upper neck segments is crucial for long-term headache management.
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This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If it sounds like what you have, an evaluation is where we find out properly.