What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?
A cervicogenic headache is a secondary headache caused by irritation or dysfunction in the neck, including the cervical joints, muscles, or nerves. Pain often begins in the neck or back of the head and travels toward the forehead, temple, or eye. Neck movement may increase symptoms, and the pain commonly affects one side.
Quick Facts About Cervicogenic Headache
Category
Secondary headache disorder
Used for
Describing neck-related head pain
Common confusion
Often confused with migraine or tension headache
Also called
Cervical Headache, Neck-related headache
Often discussed with
Headache Treatment, Neck Pain Treatment
Key Takeaways About Cervicogenic Headache
- Neck-related pain often begins near the base of the skull.
- Neck movement or posture may increase symptoms.
- It is not the same as a migraine or tension headache.
How Cervicogenic Headache Works
A cervicogenic headache develops when structures in the upper neck send pain signals into the head. The cervical joints, discs, muscles, and nerves share connections with the head and face, so irritation in the neck may feel like head pain. Symptoms may become more noticeable after sustained desk posture, neck strain, or restricted movement.
Related glossary terms: Cervical Lordosis, Tension Headache, Range of Motion.
Assessment focuses on the relationship between neck function and headache symptoms. A clinician may review symptom location, neck motion, posture, muscle tenderness, and how specific movements affect pain. Cervical spine findings can help distinguish this pattern from primary headache disorders. Treatment planning may also consider related issues such as cervical lordosis or reduced range of motion.
From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor Atlanta team
When we assess a cervicogenic headache, we review the neck history, symptom pattern, posture, and available range of motion. We also check whether specific neck movements or tender areas reproduce the familiar head pain. Our team uses those findings to guide care within Headache Treatment and to identify signs that may require medical evaluation.
Cervicogenic Headache in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person develops pain at the base of the skull after prolonged computer work, and the discomfort spreads toward one temple. During Headache Treatment, the neck pattern and movement response help determine whether the headache appears cervicogenic.
Related Services
Related Terms
Cervical Lordosis
Cervical Lordosis is the natural inward curve of the neck portion of the spine. This curve…
Tension Headache
Tension Headache is a common headache pattern linked to pressure, tightness, or aching around the forehead…
Range of Motion
Range of Motion is the movement available at a joint or across a body region. It…
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