Tension Headaches and The Cervical Spine

The cervical spine can often be a source of headaches. The occipital nerve pierces the upper cervical muscles and courses around the back of the skull. This can cause occipital (back of the head) and retro-orbital (behind the eye) headaches.

Poor posture creates a forward head and and compensatory backward bending of the upper cervical area. This can squash the nerves as they come around the back of the head.

In moderate to severe cases, manipulation of the cervical spine to free up the upper cervical restrictions is necessary. For some, a few simple exercises may help relieve some of the stress of tension headaches.

Sub-occipital Release

Head Nods

Upper Trapezius Stretching

(PICTURES FORTHCOMING IN THE NEXT WEEK)

DISCLAIMER:
The information presented on DaiseyPT.com is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or physical therapy advice. You should not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.

The exercises presented in these articles pose risks if performed incorrectly or if performed by persons who may be inappropriate for them. They are provided for informational purposes only and to provide education and insight into a particular interest. Daisey Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Inc. does not recommend performing them without a complete history and examination as well as professional instruction. Daisey Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine assumes no liability for any injury that may occur by attempting the exercises presented here.