Cervicogenic Headache Treatment
Thank you for considering our practice for your upcoming procedure. We understand that surgery can be overwhelming, but we are committed to providing you with the information and care you need to feel confident and prepared for your procedure. Here is what you can expect before, during, and after your surgery.
About the Procedure
What is Cervicogenic Headache Treatment?
Cervicogenic headache treatment is a medical procedure that involves the diagnosis and management of headaches that are caused by disorders of the neck or cervical spine. The treatment aims to address the underlying neck-related source of pain and reduce or eliminate the frequency and intensity of the headaches.
Before treatment:
Before the treatment, you will meet with your doctor or a headache specialist to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any imaging studies such as x-rays or MRI scans that have been performed. Your doctor will perform a physical examination to evaluate the range of motion in your neck and assess the severity of your headache symptoms. Additional testing, such as nerve blocks, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment:
The treatment for cervicogenic headaches typically involves a combination of medications, physical therapy, and interventional procedures. Medications may include muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory drugs, and nerve pain medications. Physical therapy may include exercises to strengthen the neck muscles and improve posture. In addition, interventional procedures such as nerve blocks or trigger point injections may be used to alleviate pain and inflammation in the neck and head.
Nerve blocks involve injecting local anesthetic and/or corticosteroid medication directly into the nerves that are causing the pain. This helps to numb the nerves and reduce inflammation, thereby reducing the frequency and intensity of the headaches. Trigger point injections involve injecting the medication directly into the painful muscle knots or "trigger points" in the neck and shoulders that are contributing to the headache pain.
Aftercare:
After the treatment, you will be monitored to ensure that the medications and interventions are effectively managing your symptoms. You may need to attend physical therapy sessions to continue to strengthen your neck muscles and improve your posture. Your doctor will also provide you with a pain management plan and advise you on how to prevent future cervicogenic headaches.
We hope this information has been helpful in preparing you for your treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We are here to support you throughout your entire journey to recovery.