Chiropractic Care for Cervicogenic Headaches


Headaches are one of the most common ailments affecting people today, with cervicogenic headaches being a lesser-known but significant type. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches originate from issues in the neck and are often linked to poor posture, neck injuries, or stress on the cervical spine. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers effective, non-invasive solutions for addressing the root causes of cervicogenic headaches and relieving pain.

In this guide, we’ll explore what cervicogenic headaches are, their causes and symptoms, and how chiropractic care can provide relief and long-term management.

What Are Cervicogenic Headaches?

Cervicogenic headaches are secondary headaches, meaning they are caused by an underlying issue—in this case, dysfunction or injury in the neck (cervical spine). The pain typically starts in the neck and radiates to the back, sides, or front of the head.

Key Features of Cervicogenic Headaches:

  • Pain is usually unilateral (on one side of the head).

  • Pain may be triggered or worsened by specific neck movements or sustained postures.

  • Accompanying symptoms may include reduced neck mobility, stiffness, or tenderness in the neck muscles.

  • The headache may be mistaken for a migraine or tension headache due to overlapping symptoms.

Common Causes of Cervicogenic Headaches

  1. Poor Posture

    • Extended periods of looking down at phones or computers (tech neck).

    • Slouching or rounded shoulders that put strain on the cervical spine.

  2. Muscle Imbalances and Tension

    • Tightness in the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, or suboccipital muscles.

    • Weakness in stabilizing muscles of the neck and upper back.

  3. Trauma or Injury

    • Whiplash from car accidents or sports injuries.

    • Cervical spine joint dysfunction due to repetitive strain.

  4. Degenerative Changes

    • Conditions like osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease can irritate nerves in the cervical spine, leading to headache symptoms.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Cervicogenic Headaches

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper alignment, mobility, and function to the spine and surrounding tissues, addressing the root causes of cervicogenic headaches. Here’s how chiropractors can help:

1. Spinal Adjustments

Chiropractors use precise manual techniques to perform spinal adjustments, improving joint mobility and reducing nerve irritation in the cervical spine. Restoring alignment can relieve muscle tension and decrease the frequency and intensity of headaches.

2. Soft Tissue Techniques

To address muscle tightness and trigger points, chiropractors often incorporate soft tissue therapies, such as:

  • Myofascial Release: Reduces tension in the fascia and muscles of the neck and shoulders.

  • Active Release Techniques (ART): Targets specific muscle adhesions to improve flexibility and function.

3. Postural Correction

Chiropractors evaluate and correct postural imbalances that contribute to cervicogenic headaches. Recommendations may include:

  • Ergonomic adjustments for desk work.

  • Exercises to strengthen postural muscles, such as the rhomboids and deep neck flexors.

4. Complementary Modalities

Chiropractors may integrate additional therapies, such as:

  • Dry Needling: Relieves trigger points in the neck and shoulders.

  • Class IV Laser Therapy: Reduces inflammation and promotes tissue healing.

  • Cupping Therapy: Enhances blood flow and reduces muscle tension in the upper back and neck.

At-Home Care and Preventative Strategies

In addition to in-office care, chiropractors often provide patients with home exercises and tips to manage and prevent cervicogenic headaches.

1. Stretches for Neck Mobility

  • Chin Tucks: Gently pull your chin back to align your head with your spine.

  • Levator Scapulae Stretch: Tilt your head to one side and slightly forward while holding onto the opposite shoulder.

  • Suboccipital Release: Use a foam roller or massage ball under the base of your skull to release tension.

2. Strengthening Exercises

  • Deep Neck Flexor Activation: Lie on your back and perform small head lifts to engage the deep stabilizing muscles of the neck.

  • Scapular Retractions: Pull your shoulder blades together to strengthen the upper back.

3. Ergonomic Adjustments

  • Keep your computer monitor at eye level to avoid forward head posture.

  • Use a chair with lumbar support to maintain spinal alignment.

  • Take regular breaks to stretch and move during prolonged sitting.

What to Expect During Chiropractic Treatment

Your first visit to a chiropractor will typically involve:

  1. Comprehensive Evaluation

    • A detailed medical history and discussion of your headache symptoms.

    • Physical examination, including assessment of posture, neck mobility, and muscle tension.

  2. Personalized Treatment Plan

    • A customized approach based on your specific needs, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercises.

    • Frequency of visits and progress tracking to ensure optimal results.

  3. Education and Prevention

    • Guidance on lifestyle changes, ergonomic improvements, and exercises to reduce recurrence.

How Effective Is Chiropractic Care for Cervicogenic Headaches?

Research supports the effectiveness of chiropractic care in managing cervicogenic headaches:

  • A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulation significantly reduced the frequency and intensity of cervicogenic headaches compared to other treatments.

  • Soft tissue techniques and postural correction have been shown to improve neck function and alleviate headache symptoms over time.

When to Seek Chiropractic Care

If you experience frequent headaches that seem to originate from your neck, consider seeking chiropractic care if:

  • Your headaches worsen with certain neck movements or sustained postures.

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers provide only temporary relief.

  • You want a natural, drug-free approach to managing your pain.

Chiropractic Care for Cervicogenic Headaches at Boulder Sports Chiropractic

At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we specialize in treating cervicogenic headaches and other musculoskeletal conditions. Our comprehensive approach combines spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises to address the root cause of your headaches and prevent recurrence.

Why Choose Boulder Sports Chiropractic?

  • Expertise in treating headache-related neck dysfunction.

  • Advanced therapies, including dry needling, laser therapy, and cupping.

  • Customized care plans tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.

Call to Action

Don’t let cervicogenic headaches disrupt your life. With the right care and guidance, you can find relief and get back to doing what you love pain-free.

Contact Boulder Sports Chiropractic today at 303-444-5105 or schedule an appointment online to start your journey to headache relief.

alyx brown

Welcome to Boulder Sports Chiropractic, your premier destination for exceptional sports medicine and rehabilitation services in Boulder, CO. Our dedicated team of highly skilled healthcare professionals is committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care to athletes and individuals of all ages and abilities. With a holistic approach to treatment, state-of-the-art facilities, and a multidisciplinary team, we offer a wide range of services, including injury evaluation and treatment, physical therapy, rehabilitation, sports performance enhancement, and preventive care. At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we are passionate about helping you recover, improve your athletic performance, and maintain optimal physical well-being. Experience the difference of our expert care and start your journey towards peak performance today.

Cart (0)