I’ve Got a Crick In My N̶e̶c̶k̶ Head

According to the American Migraine Foundation, a cervicogenic headache is “pain perceived as occurring in a part of the body other than its true source; it is perceived in the head from a source in the neck.”

The pain from a cervicogenic headache begins in the neck, and posterior head, but may not be appreciated until it radiates toward the front of the head and can easily be misinterpreted as a tension headache or migraine.

The underlying cause of a cervicogenic headache is usually degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine. Many of our patients here at Advanced Spine and Pain who have had issues with cervicogenic headaches have come in for medial branch blocks, followed by a cervical radiofrequency ablation and are generally surprised to find not only their neck pain improving following their cervical procedure, but also finding their headaches improving as well.

Other treatment options include rest, ice, physical therapy, medications, massage, or yoga. If you find that your crick in the neck is now in your head, please talk to your Advanced Spine and Pain provider to determine the best course of action to remedy your pain.