What is the difference between a cervicogenic headache and a migraine?

Oct 9

2 min read

Headaches are a common ailment that many people experience at some point in their lives. Two specific types of headaches that are often confused with each other are cervicogenic headaches (sometimes called secondary headaches) and migraines (sometimes called primary headaches). While both can cause significant pain and discomfort, they have distinct differences in terms of causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Cervicogenic Headache

Cause: Cervicogenic headaches originate from the cervical spine or neck area. They are often caused by issues such as neck injuries, arthritis, or poor posture.
Symptoms: The pain from a cervicogenic headache typically starts in the neck and then radiates to the head. Patients may also experience stiffness in the neck and limited range of motion.
Treatment: Treatment for cervicogenic headaches often involves physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medications to manage pain and inflammation.

Migraines

Cause: Migraines are a neurological condition that involves abnormal brain activity. They can be triggered by various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, or environmental factors. People who have experienced significant emotional or physical trauma are more likely to develop chronic migraines, including people who experience concussion.
Symptoms: Migraines are typically characterized by intense throbbing or pulsing pain on one side of the head, accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Treatment: Treatment for migraines may include medications to prevent or alleviate symptoms, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques.

It is essential to differentiate between cervicogenic headaches and migraines to ensure appropriate treatment and management. While cervicogenic headaches are related to neck issues, migraines are a complex neurological condition with a range of triggers. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help in accurately diagnosing the type of headache and developing an effective treatment plan tailored to individual needs.