A short video by Dr. Jeff Langmaid (Research that Matters TV) explaining that many headaches originate in the neck (cervicogenic headaches). He defines cervicogenic headache (dull pain radiating from the neck to the back or sides/front of the head), lists common accompanying signs (neck stiffness, tender head/shoulder muscles) and common causes (poor posture, tight shoulders, stiff neck). He states that over 70% of people with cervicogenic headaches find significant relief with spinal adjustments, and recommends hydration, hourly stretching, ergonomic workstation setup, and seeking clinical evaluation if pain or reduced neck range of motion persists.
Chapters
Hi, I'm Dr. Jeff Langmaid with Research that Matters TV. Your head hurts. Could it be coming from your neck? You may be surprised to learn that neck pain and headaches are tightly linked together. A headache that starts from an issue in the neck is called a cervicogenic headache. A cervicogenic headache is characterized by a dull pain that radiates from the neck to the back of your head. At times, it may spread around the side or even to the front of your head. So cervicogenic headaches are common if you spend long hours at the computer each and every day. Neck Stiffness Tender muscles around your head and shoulders often come along with cervicogenic headaches. Because of the position that many of us sit in all day, the added stress and strain on your upper back and neck muscles can add up over time and begin to cause additional headaches. Without taking proactive steps to address the cause of the issue, you may notice that the headaches become more frequent and intense. Now, cervicogenic headaches can begin due to tightness in the shoulders, a stiff neck or poor posture. It's also important to keep in mind over 70% of people with cervicogenic headaches find significant relief with spinal adjustments. And finally, spinal adjustments can reduce the severity and frequency of the headaches you might be having. To break the cycle of daily cervicogenic headaches, you need to address the cause. Staying well hydrated with water, stretching every hour, and setting up your workstation ergonomically or are all important to reduce your headache risk. If you still notice that headaches are bugging you, you have pain or limited neck range of motion, give us a call for a complete evaluation and plan of care to help you get well and stay well. I'll see you next week for another episode of Research that Matters TV.
