Cervicogenic Headaches:

• Cervicogenic Headaches, in comparison to other forms of headaches, are usually related to a musculoskeletal impairment in the cervical spine.

• Cervicogenic headaches may be caused by external pressure or and awkward position of the neck.  It is commonly related to trauma, degenerative changes, or postural strain.

• Cervicogenic headaches generally start in the posterior aspects of the base of the skull and travel up the head.  Cervicogenic headaches may also adversely affect neck mobility. Symptoms may fluctuate in intensity.  Symptoms are also usually unilateral.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction:

• TMJ dysfunction is a term given to describe a group of conditions involving the TMJ.  The TMJ is a small joint that connects the mandible and the temporal bones in the head.

• The cause of TMJ dysfunction include damage/strain to the muscles surrounding the joint, whiplash, grinding/clenching teeth, dislocation of the disc within the joint, arthritis, and stress.

• TMJ dysfunction can cause pain that is worse during or after eating or yawning. It can cause limited jaw movement and clicks/pops during chewing.  In severe cases, pain can radiate into the neck, shoulders and back.