Cervicogenic Headache - Diagnosis & Treatment

How is a cervicogenic headache diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a cervicogenic headache typically involves:

Medical history and symptom review with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms, headache patterns, and any potential triggers.
Physical and neurological examination to assess neck mobility, muscle tenderness, and neurological function.
Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to evaluate the structure of the cervical spine and identify any abnormalities.
Diagnostic injections such as diagnostic nerve blocks or injections to confirm the source of pain.

Treatment for cervicogenic headaches focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. This may include:

Medications such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy, which involves exercises and therapies to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility.
Manual therapy such as massage to relieve muscle tension and improve joint function.
Lifestyle modifications such as stress management, ergonomic adjustments, and incorporating regular exercise and stretching into your routine.
Injections such as corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks to reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgery may be required to address severe structural issues in the cervical spine, though this is not a common occurrence.