For individuals who frequently have problems with both headaches and neck pain simultaneously, it could not be surprising to discover that these symptoms tend to be interlinked. In 1983 a Norwegian physician, Dr. Ottar Sjaastad, documented a sub-group of headache patients with head pain that originated within the cervical spine. He dubbed this discovery the “cervicogenic headache”.
Pain Facts
Pain can spread. An issue within the neck can stimulate a nerve leading to the scalp and subsequently result in a headache. Unfortunately, the duality of the problem can make it difficult to acquire the root and for that reason define a suitable treatment. Nearly all cervicogenic headaches are because of tightness in the posterior neck muscles, that exist behind the neck.
Because of this, whatever can strain the neck muscles may also result in a cervicogenic headache.
Take Note
- Stress Induced: Stress could cause the muscles round the neck to tighten, that may result in tension headaches, neck pain and a sense of pressure.
- Bad Posture: From the pillow with inadequate support to an unhealthy driving position, there are always a thousand and one methods to cause neck pain.
- Injury or Trauma: A personal injury to the neck of shoulders can make tension and strain within the muscles round the neck, shoulders and head.
- Poor lighting: If you are straining to read because of insufficient light, it can result in eyestrain and stiffness in your scalp and forehead muscles.
- Gum chewing: Vigorous chewing can strain the muscles in your mind and neck. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: Excessive jaw clenching or poor jaw alignment can result in both headaches and neck pain.
- Meningitis: Outward indications of meningitis often include head pain, neck stiffness and fever.
Cervicogenic Headaches
Do I’ve Cervicogenic Headaches? Approximately 8% of the global population is suffering from cervicogenic headaches – based on the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy.
- Does the pain begins at the bottom of the neck and gradually moves in to the head?
- At the headache’s onset, may be the neck region tender to the touch?
Both these are classic symptoms. However, there are lots of causes for headaches and neck pain, so it’s important to talk to physician to look for the exact cause.
