What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?
Problems in the spine and neck aren't always limited to those areas alone. In many cases, pain in the upper spine or neck can radiate up to the head itself, causing what's called a cervicogenic headache. Although the symptoms are felt in the head, the underlying source is dysfunction (such as irritated joints, nerves, muscles, or connective tissues) in the cervical spine.
Cervicogenic headaches are often localized to one side of the head, though they can affect both sides in some cases. Many people describe a deep, aching pain that begins in the neck or at the base of the skull before spreading upward. You might also experience neck stiffness, reduced range of motion, or tenderness in the surrounding muscles.
At the Center for Regenerative Sports & Spine Care, we take a broad approach to cervicogenic headaches, looking at how your body's nerves, joints, and ligaments are working together to identify the underlying causes of discomfort. We understand how disruptive headaches can be, which is why we're committed to helping you take back control of your routine. If you're suffering from head pain accompanied by stiffness or discomfort in the neck, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mairin Jerome at our practice in Atlanta, GA to learn if you're suffering from cervicogenic headaches.
How Do You Treat Cervicogenic Headaches?
Cervicogenic headaches are usually tied to movement and posture, which is why Dr. Jerome will start by assessing mobility and muscle tension around your neck and upper spine. She may also order imaging tests to examine the area for signs of fractures, nerve compression, or other potential headache causes.
Once the cause has been identified, treatment for cervicogenic headaches typically involves targeted exercises to strengthen the neck, postural correction to reduce strain on the spine, and trigger point therapy to release tension in the upper back. Dr. Jerome may also recommend regenerative therapies (such as orthobiologic injections) to help repair ligament strain and instability. We'll follow up with you regularly throughout your treatment to monitor your symptoms, provide guidance, and adjust your plan as needed.
What Are the Benefits of Treatment for Cervicogenic Headaches?
While headaches are fairly common, cervicogenic headaches can be much more debilitating and painful. They can also be difficult to diagnose, which is why it's important to trust your care to an experienced physician who knows how to recognize their signs. At the Center for Regenerative Sports & Spine Care, we're committed to providing long-term relief for Atlanta, GA patients suffering from cervicogenic headaches. The benefits of our treatments include:
- Reducing headache pain that originates from tension and irritation in the neck
- Improving neck mobility that may be contributing to recurring headache patterns
- Decreasing stiffness and pressure at the base of the skull and upper cervical spine
- Reducing muscle tension that radiates into the head, jaw, and shoulders
- Improving posture and movement patterns that place strain on the cervical spine
- Decreasing the frequency and intensity of headache flare-ups over time
- Supporting smoother, less restricted movement throughout the neck and upper back
Center for Regenerative Sports & Spine Care Reviews
Dr Jerome is incredibly thorough and knowledgeable! She took time to speak with me about all treatment options and how to eliminate my pain. She not only got me moving again, she got my life back! I highly, unequivocally recommend Dr Jerome!
I met with Dr. Jerome after experiencing difficulties with stiffness in my back and legs which was creating difficulty walking. Prior to meeting with Dr. Jerome I met with several doctors including a Neurologist who diagnosed me with spinal stenosis and suggested trying some PT but was told there wasn't anything that could be done and this will be your new normal. I had a friend recommend seeing Dr. Jerome for a second opinion after the success he saw with his daughters and wife who had their own issues and their success. Dr. Jerome met with me and spent well over an hour evaluating my X-Rays and MRI's and determined the root cause and said that there wasn't any reason for my issues to be my new normal! She conducted 2 surgeries using my own blood platelets which improved my mobility and my life drastically! During that same evolution she identified an issue with my hip which had deteriorated and was developing bone spurs (no other doctor caught or identified that issue) she said that the damaged hip was beyond anything she could do to repair and suggested seeing a surgeon for a 2nd opinion. She was right and I recently had my hip replaced! In closing I have to say that in my 58 years of life I have never met with a doctor who spent as much time and focus with me in order to try and improve my circumstances and my life. Dr. Jerome in my opinion is the best doctor I have ever interacted with! I would highly recommend her to any friend, family member, or anyone for that matter! Any patient with the good fortune of having Dr. Jerome in their corner will be blessed with someone who truly cares for them and is the best at what she does! Forever grateful! Rob Edgeton West Des Moines, IA.
On Feb 20, 2023, I had my first appointment with Dr Mairin Jerome at Regenexx in Des Moines IA and on March 27, 2023. I was impressed by her inquiries into my health, she examined my knee, finding the pain areas with her hands and used a ultra sound to get a better idea of my knee. (It was so very different then my Ortho physician who took x-rays and stood across the room and told me I needed two complete knee replacements and when did I want to schedule it, I felt like I’d been hit by a 2 x 4). I had platelets a prolotherapy injection; into my R knee and lower back. I was amazed after two days I had low to no pain, I only used only two pain pills. I was told what every step of the procedure was and asked if I understood, Dr Jerome called that evening to check on how I was doing, I felt supported and she knew what was going on with my PT on my follow up visit. Dr Jerome went above and beyond what she needed to do to make me comfortable. On Sept 20, 2023 I had a stem cell procedure done on my L knee and it went as easily as the first procedure. There were extra stem cells so she put them into my L hip, sweet! Again, I feel Dr Jerome took that extra measure of patient care. I am sensitive to medications and usually take half of what is prescribed, she ‘listens’ and prescribed my pain meds in a smaller dose so that I didn’t have to deal with breaking pills up. For me it’s the little gestures that make a doctor great. Dr Jerome is an excellent doctor, I and many others in Des Moines, will miss her as she goes back east to practice. Kathleen McLean (age 73)
Dr. Jerome got to the root of my issues was able to treat my spine comprehensibly. Enjoyed her humor and patience with my veins! Very sad to see her leave Des Moines!
Dr. Jerome is very professional, attentive and caring. She takes the time to listen not only with her ears but her eyes and heart as well. She noted symptoms I didn't realize I had. She provided personal follow-ups, not just relying on her staff, and supplied emotional support when I felt my issues were crashing down around me. There are not enough words to properly thank you, Dr. Jerome, for all you have done for my knees, back, neck and hands.
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Ease Head Pain and Pressure
If cervicogenic headaches have you feeling like you're stuck in a cycle of pain and stiffness, Dr. Jerome and our team at the Center for Regenerative Sports & Spine Care can help you find relief. We offer a variety of focused treatments to encourage recovery and alleviate pressure on your body. Schedule an appointment at our practice in Atlanta, GA to learn more about how we treat cervicogenic headaches.