“Cervicogenic headache and
its associated symptoms are
typically the result of stiff joints
in the neck, more specifically the
upper portion of the neck”
compensatory patterns of other muscles. He is
instructed to hold this position for a certain amount
of time, and repeats this action for a certain amount
of repetitions. Additional exercises are performed in
physical therapy to promote strength and endurance
of the neck muscles and upper back muscles.
Other physical therapy interventions used to
address cervicogenic headache include, and are
not limited to: soft tissue massage; cardiovascular
exercise; education on posture and body mechanics;
stretching; and, pain relieving modalities.
Individuals should expect to attend physical therapy
sessions 2 to 3 times per week for 3 to 6 weeks. With
appropriate treatment from a physical therapist who
specializes in headache interventions, one can expect
a decrease or resolution in cervicogenic headache
signs and symptoms. HW
Suggested reading:
Biondi, D. Cervicogenic headache: A review of
diagnostic and treatment strategies. JAOA. April
2005;105 (4).
Chaibi, A et al. Manual therapies for cervicogenic
headache: A systematic review. J Headache Pain. 2012;
13: 351-359.
Fernandez de las Penas, C, et al. Clinical reasoning for
manual therapy management for cervicogenic headache.
JMMT. 2004; 22 (1): 45-51.
Farmer, P et al. An investigation of cervical spine
posture in cervicogenic headache. Physical Therapy.
February 2015; 95 (2): 212-222.
Hall, T et al. Clinical evaluation of cervicogenic
headache: A clinical perspective. Man Manip Ther.
2008; 16(2): 73–80.
Headache Classification Subcommittee of the
International Headache Society. The International
Classification of Headache Disorders: 3rd edition
(beta version). 2013. Cephalalgia 2013; 33 (9):
629-808.
Jull, G et al. Trial of management of cervicogenic
headache. Pine 2002; 27 (17):1835-1843.
Winkel D. Differential Diagnosis of the Spine:
Nonoperative Orthopedic Medicine and Manual Therapy.
PRO-ED, Inc; 1996. HW
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HeadW ise ®
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Volume 4, Issue 4 • 2015
Denise Schneider, PT,
performs manual therapy
on a patient to address
upper cervical joint
stiffness and decreased
range of motion
of the head/neck.