Cervicogenic headaches are a type of headache that originates from the cervical spine, or neck region. Unlike typical headaches, cervicogenic headaches are often caused by underlying issues in the neck, such as muscle tension, joint dysfunction, or cervical spine disorders.

Individuals experiencing cervicogenic headaches may feel pain in the head, but the source of the discomfort is actually in the neck. This type of headache is often described as a dull, aching pain that radiates from the base of the skull to the forehead, temple, or behind the eyes.

Common symptoms of cervicogenic headaches may include neck stiffness, restricted range of motion in the neck, pain that worsens with certain neck movements or positions, and tenderness in the neck muscles or joints.

Treatment for cervicogenic headaches typically focuses on addressing the underlying neck issues contributing to the pain. This may include physical therapy to improve neck posture, strengthen neck muscles, and increase range of motion. Manual therapy techniques such as spinal manipulation or mobilization may also be used to alleviate pain and restore normal neck function.

In addition to conservative treatments, other interventions such as medications, nerve blocks, or injections may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation associated with cervicogenic headaches. In some cases, surgery may be considered for individuals with severe or refractory symptoms that do not respond to conservative measures.