Cervicogenic Headache

Hi all,

I had a patient with cervicogenic (CG) headache during my country placement, her clinical presentation was classic and since PCR exam is just around the corner (CG headache has been in the exam for the last few years), I am going to share some information with all of you on this topic.

What is CG headache?
It is a headache caused by abnormalities of the joints, muscles, fascia and neural structures of the cervical region.

Clinical Features:
1)Usually described as a constant, steady, dull ache, often unilateral but sometimes bilateral.
2)Pt may describe a tight band around the head and headaches are usually in the suboccipital region and commonly referred to the frontal, retro-orbital or temporal regions.
3)Usually gradual onset
4)Pt often wakes with a headache that may improve in the day
5)May be present for days, weeks or even months
6)May be a Hx of acute trauma ie whiplash injury, MVA or repetitive trauma ie work or sporting activity
7)Often associated with neck pain or stiffness and us. Agg by neck or head mvmts such as repetitive jolting (travelling on car/bus)
8)Can also be assoc with light-headedness, dizziness, tinnitus
9)Pt also us. presents with poor posture: rounded shoulders, poked chin resulting in weakness of DNF’s
10)Stress is often also assoc

Note: Different types of headache can co-exist

I have gathered the above information from a few different sources and I am aware of some clinical features mentioned do not match with what we’ve learnt in Uni, feel free to give me some comments, I will pay a penny for your thought.