Trigger Point Talk; Volume 2

Written By Audrey Ventura

Cervicogenic (Neck) Headache

There are many different types of headaches but did you know that trigger points in the muscles caused from the neck may be the cause. Typical causes of cervicogenic headaches are misaligned vertebrae and/or neck instability leading to poor movement mechanics. When vertebrae aren’t properly aligned or are not moving together in appropriate rhythm, it results in the “pinching” of nerves which increase pain as well as blood vessels which will alter blood flow to the brain.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF CERVICOGENIC HEADACHES:

• Upper Neck and/or Jaw Tension
• Pain that starts at the neck and goes up the back of the head

• Numbness, Tingling, and/or Pain in the arm(s)

HOW TO KNOW IF THE CERVICAL SPINE IS A FACTOR:

  • Range of Motion Screen- Turn your head side to side. You should have a full, pain free range of motion. Do the same nodding your head up and down. If you have limited range of motion and/or pain, the neck is likely one of the causes.

  • Pain and/or Tension building up over time when keeping your head in the same position (i.e. sitting at your desk)

  • Numbness, Pain, and/or Tingling after holding your head in a position for a prolonged period of time (lying on your side, etc.)

    THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES TO CERVICOGENIC HEADACHES:

  • Cervical Massage and Mobilization 

  • Breathing techniques 

  • Chiropractic adjustment- It is very important to work with a chiropractor who has experience working with concussion patients and takes a more “gentle” approach, especially when working with the upper cervical spine (Atlas/Axis)! Aggressive adjustments can exacerbate your injury and increase symptoms!

  • Physical Therapy or other therapeutic movement professional who has experience working with the neck.

Sternocleidomastoid Muscle

Pain Pattern

  • Face and head

  • Forehead, ear and back of the head 

  • Eyebrow

Common Symptoms

  • Tension Headache

  • “Stiff Neck”

  • Persistent Dry Cough

  • Sinus Congestion on the same side

  • Pain in your check and molars

  • Visual disturbances and tearing

  • Ear Pain and partial loss of hearing

  • Dizziness and disturbed balance or vertigo (a spinning sensation)

Possible causes or Perpetrators

  • Forward Head Posture

  • Constantly tilting the head or looking up for long periods of time.

  • Using a pillow that’s too high

  • Whiplash 

See video for self treatment

Audrey Ventura
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Breathing Mechanics:
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Trigger Point Talk; Volume 1