Cervicogenic Headache
Headaches can be very severe and often have a profound effect on the lives of headache sufferers. As I write this article, we are nearing the holiday season. Headaches are very common and because they happen regularly, people commonly refer to them as just a normal headache. However headaches happen for a reason. Some people think that stress causes headaches. It may be a contributing factor, but we all have stress. Studies show that there is an underlying cause besides stress. Why does one person suffer with headaches and the next person does not? One of the most common causes of headache that I encounter on a daily basis is called Cervicogenic headache.
What is Cervicogenic Headache?
A Cervicogenic headache is caused by misalignments in the neck (the cervical spine) and can also result from a loss of mobility in the upper neck area. The term is used to refer to headaches
where the primary cause is in the neck. Pain may radiate to the forehead (frontal region), the eyes (orbital region), the temple and the ears. Studies show that over 70% of all
headaches arise from problems in the neck. I also find this in my 17 years of experience in treating headaches.
Cervicogenic Headache Causes
In my experience, Cervicogenic headaches are not exclusive to, but more common in females than males. The current theory is that abnormal movements and postures of the neck result in irritation to the upper three cervical nerves.
Chiropractic care is very helpful for this type of headache because it can correct the source directly. It is also a helpful treatment for other types of headaches, such as Migraines.
For many years, my patients have obtained relief from their headaches through natural chiropractic care. Here at Andresen Active Healthcare we use natural techniques without the use of drugs or surgery.
If you are experiencing headaches like we have described in this article, please contact our office to schedule a consultation. 847.888.3383