What is a Cervicogenic Headache?

A Cervicogenic Headache (CGH) is a headache type that arises from the cervical spine, particularly the upper few vertabrae of the neck. The main source of symptoms can be different for everyone but most commonly the joints connecting C2 and C3, and less commonly ligaments and muscles.

It is a common complaint with the increase in patients working from home with poor office set up. Other people who can be at risk are people with a history of whiplash or neck trauma. Symptoms of a Cervicogenic Headache is pain on one side of the head, neck or face. Often there is stiffness in the neck and restriction in movement.

If a Cervigoenic Headache becomes severe it can also create sensitivity to light and sound, nausea and blurred vision. Which is why they can be commonly mistaken for a migraine.

Physiotherapists are highly skilled at assessing, diagnosing and treating Cervicogenic Headaches.