Cervicogenic Headaches

Posted Tuesday, May 04, 2010 by Ed Harper

Many of my clients suffer from headaches following a rear-end crash. They often ask their physicians or health care providers, “Why am I getting a headache after a collision?” or “I’ve never had headaches before the crash, why now?”

Often neck injuries can be the source of a debilitating headache. If you have been told your neck injury is the source of your headaches, you likely have a “cervicogenic” headache. Cervico means – pertaining to the neck. Genic means – of or is related to or cause of.

The top 2 or 3 levels of the cervical spine to the base of the skull primarily carry out 50% of the movement of the head/skull. Thus, these levels must withstand continuous wear and tear, and also bear the primary load of the weight of the head.

At a recent seminar, noted medical doctor from the UW Headache Clinic mentioned the following: The primary pain sources from the neck at the first three spinal nerves:
C1 spinal nerve (suboccipital nerve) innervates the atlanto-occipital joint.
C2 spinal nerve runs close to the atlantoaxial (C1-2) zygapophyseal joint and innervates the atlantoaxial and C2-3 zygapophyseal joints.
Dorsal Ramus of C3 innervates the C2-3 zygapophyseal joint. This joint and nerve appear most vulnerable to “whiplash”, per Dr. Murinova, Neurologist.

There are many factors to consider in addressing whether the headaches are a direct result of a motor vehicle crash. However, as mentioned above, the genesis of a headache may indeed be caused by the proverbial “pain in the neck “.

If you have any questions regarding your bodily injuries following a collision or fall, contact Harper Law. 425 284 3333

We Are Here to Help

Although our office does not handle all types of cases, we hope you will contact us regarding any legal issues you may encounter. We will answer your questions, or refer you to another quality and trustworthy attorney if we are unable to assist you.