This type of headache is called a Cervicogenic Headache and is characterized by painful and restricted cervical range of motion, tender to touch upper neck muscles and joints, and a radiation pattern that comes up the neck through the back of the head and around the ears and forehead. Cervicogenic Headaches originate in the upper cervical spine when the first three joint segments become misaligned, restricted, and dysfunctional. The improper position and motion causes the small sub occipital muscles that attach to these three vertebrae and the skull to become very tight and hyperactive, causing the headache.
How can Chiropractic help?
Cervicogenic headaches respond extremely well to chiropractic adjustments to the upper cervical spine. By correcting the misalignments and restoring proper motion in the joints, the sub occipital muscles relax and release the tension, therefore relieving the headache.