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Common Conditions

Cervicogenic Headache

Symptoms, Common Cause and Treatments

What is Cervicogenic Headache?

Cervicogenic Headache is a type of headache originating from the cervical spine, typically caused by:

  • The pain typically starts at the base of the skull and may radiate to the forehead or eyes.
  • Accompanied by neck stiffness and restricted neck movement.
  • Head movement or certain postures may exacerbate the headache symptoms.

Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headache

Cervicogenic headache symptoms typically develop gradually and may worsen over time:

  • Unilateral headache, often starting from the neck and radiating upwards and forwards
  • Neck stiffness or pain accompanying the headache
  • Head or neck movement may worsen the pain
  • Possible discomfort in the shoulder or arm

5 Key Common Causes of Cervicogenic Headache

Several factors can contribute to cervicogenic headache, including:

  • Cervical joint stiffness or degeneration (e.g., arthritis)
  • Poor posture, such as prolonged forward head position when using mobile devices or computers
  • Overuse or tension in neck muscles
  • Neck trauma, such as whiplash injuries from car accidents
  • Repetitive strain from work or sports activities

Assessment and Physical Therapy Management

Our experienced physiotherapists will conduct a thorough physical examination to check your range of motion and evaluate your medical history. 

Treatment options may include:

Manual Therapy

Physiotherapists utilize joint mobilization techniques to improve upper cervical spine mobility and reduce joint stress. Additionally, myofascial release will be performed to help relieve muscle tightness and tension around the neck and shoulders.

Advanced Modalities

For cervicogenic headaches patients, common treatments include high-energy laser therapy, ultrasound therapy, and interferential therapy. These modalities effectively reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Ergonomic Adjustments

Posture correction and ergonomic improvements are also essential. Adjusting workstation setup, improving sitting and standing posture, and avoiding prolonged poor posture can help reduce pain and discomfort caused by postural issues.

Exercise Therapy

Exercise therapy includes neck strengthening exercises, stretching exercises, proprioceptive training, and clinical Pilates. Neck strengthening exercises help improve the strength and endurance of deep neck muscles, enhancing cervical spine support. Stretching exercises improve upper cervical joint mobility, reducing joint pressure and preventing headache recurrence. Proprioceptive training is beneficial for patients with chronic cervicogenic headaches, as they often lack proper cervical spine proprioception. Clinical Pilates strengthens the thoracic spine and scapular muscles while increasing cervical and thoracic mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mild cases may improve with rest and posture correction, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be addressed through physiotherapy to prevent complications.

If headaches occur frequently, interfere with daily life, or are accompanied by neck stiffness and restricted movement, seeking early assessment and treatment is advisable.

Maintaining good posture, regularly stretching the neck and shoulders, using ergonomic work equipment, and avoiding prolonged static positions can help reduce the risk.

No, cervicogenic headache and migraine are distinct types of headaches. Cervicogenic headache originates from structural problems in the neck, while migraine is typically caused by neurological and vascular issues. The symptoms and underlying causes are different between the two.

Testimonials & Reviews

I came to them with chronic neck and knee issues, and they didn't just provide massage therapy. They took the time to thoroughly evaluate the source of my problems and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Through a combination of targeted hands-on therapy, customized strengthening exercises, and patient education, they helped me regain mobility and address the root causes of my pain. I learned the correct ways to strengthen the muscles and improve my posture to prevent future issues.
The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to explain everything and ensure I understood how to continue my progress at home. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, I'm now pain-free and able to return to my regular activities without any limitations.
Arthur Liu
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I had never been a believer in physio therapy in the past or that my experience with multiple chain medical physiotherapy center had brought me nothing but temporary improvements. Until I had came across mobilize physiotherapy where they take the extra mile to examine your situation and tailor a physiotherapy session. The physiotherapists at Mobilize not only identifies the root cause and provide massages for pain relievers but also to provide take home exercises for improvements. I was never rush out the door for the next session and they ensure that I had receive the right treatment before the session ends.
I would highly recommend this physiotherapy center.
Edmond Chan
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As someone who regularly goes through the torment of backpain and neck pain, I was recommended by my friend to visit Mobilize Physiotherapy.
Everything - from appointment booking to the physiotherapy session itself - was very professional. Not only did Avery, my physiotherapist. give detailed explanations as he worked through my areas of pain, he taught me a few exercises that improve my core strength, which in turn could reduce my back and neck pain. Now, whenever I experience acute pain, I do these exercises and the pain eases away!
I highly recommend Mobilize Physiotherapy.
William Luk
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Excellent service. The physiotherapists are very professional, easy to communicate with and also give clear instructions on some home exercises that can help ease my pain. As a stay at home mom, I need a lot of strength on my daily routine and whenever I have any pain and problems I go to Avery for therapies and he is always helpful and caring
Highly recommended!
Samantha Lee
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I can't recommend my physio partner enough! They are always patient and provide valuable guidance to help me relieve chronic pain and improve my performance in jiu-jitsu. Their expertise has been invaluable to me. Highly recommended!
Felix Kung
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passionate, precise and comprehensive physiotherapy service, highly recommended for sudden onset or prolonged pain with unknown reason.
Sam Sam
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