Cervicogenic headaches

Cervicogenic headaches are a specific type of headache that originates from issues in the cervical spine (neck), often resulting from conditions such as arthritis, disc herniation, or whiplash injuries. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches are secondary headaches, meaning they are caused by another physical issue—in this case, problems in the neck.

Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headaches

Individuals suffering from cervicogenic headaches may experience:

  • Pain that starts at the back of the head and radiates to the front

  • One-sided head pain

  • Reduced range of motion in the neck

  • Pain that worsens with certain neck movements or sustained postures

  • Shoulder and arm pain

  • Sensitivity to light and sound (less common)

Causes of Cervicogenic Headaches

These headaches are often caused by underlying neck issues, including:

  • Degenerative disc disease

  • Facet joint dysfunction

  • Herniated cervical discs

  • Whiplash injuries

At Kansas Pain Management, we recognize the complexity of cervicogenic headaches and offer comprehensive evaluations to determine the exact cause of your pain.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Our approach includes:

  • Detailed medical history and physical examination

  • Diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT scans) to identify structural issues

  • Diagnostic nerve blocks to confirm the source of pain

Treatment Options

We provide a range of treatments tailored to the individual’s specific condition:

Conservative Therapies

  • Physical Therapy: Focuses on strengthening neck muscles, improving posture, and increasing range of motion.

  • Medications: NSAIDs and muscle relaxants to reduce inflammation and muscle tension.

Interventional Procedures

  • Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections: Deliver steroids directly to the epidural space to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

  • Medial Branch Blocks: Target the nerves transmitting pain from the facet joints.

  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses heat to disrupt nerve signals causing pain, providing longer-term relief.

Advanced Therapies

  • Botox Injections: May be considered for patients with muscle spasticity contributing to headaches.

  • Ketamine Infusions: For chronic pain conditions unresponsive to other treatments.

Clinical Research Opportunities

Kansas Pain Management is actively involved in clinical research to advance pain management treatments. We are currently enrolling patients with a history of cervicogenic headaches for studies evaluating the efficacy of Radiofrequency Ablation. Participants should have experienced neck pain for at least six months and have not found relief from conservative treatments. ​

Why Choose Kansas Pain Management?

Our multidisciplinary team is dedicated to providing personalized care, utilizing the latest advancements in pain management to improve your quality of life. From diagnosis to treatment, we are committed to guiding you through every step of your journey toward relief.​

📞 Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your headache treatment options.

If you’re experiencing persistent headaches that may be originating from your neck, contact Kansas Pain Management to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Our experts are here to help you find effective relief and regain control of your life.​

Schedule a Consultation Today

Kansas Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The first step is a thorough evaluation, which includes a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, if necessary.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.

Kansas Pain Management also offers a range of minimally invasive procedures to help alleviate pain and restore function. With board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, Kansas Pain Management is committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from pain. We provide comprehensive and personalised treatment options for pain in Overland Park, Lawrence, Leavenworth/Lansing, Kansas City, Ottawa, Missouri, Topeka, Belton and surrounding areas.  We also have a new location at Lee Summit Medical Center in Lee Summit, MO.