Spinal problems are an important cause of headaches, because when there is any change in the cervical region, the tension that builds up in the muscles of the upper back and neck produces a painful stimulus for the brain, which responds by generating a headache.
This type of headache is also often known as tension headache. Learn about other causes of tension headache and what to do.
Some examples of the main problems related to the spine that can cause a headache are:
- Increased muscle tension due to tiredness and stress;
- Deviation in the column;
- Bad posture;
- Cervical rib;
- Thoracic outlet syndrome.
These changes lead to an imbalance in the forces of support of the head, generating compensations that can compromise the biomechanics of the neck region, causing headache.
Sometimes the headache can be confused with a migraine because they generate similar symptoms. However, headache from back problems has some typical characteristics. These features are pain that begins or worsens with neck movements and/or increased sensitivity in the back of the neck.
How to relieve headache
To relieve a headache caused by back problems, there are some steps you can take:
- Taking a pain reliever such as Aspirin or Paracetamol;
- Taking a muscle relaxant such as Miosan;
- Take a relaxing bath, letting the jet of hot water fall on the back of the neck;
- Place a warm compress on the neck and shoulders region, leaving it on for at least 15 minutes. Here’s how to make a warm compress for back pain.
- Try doing some neck stretching exercises.
In addition, it is essential to treat the spine to eliminate the problem from the root. In this case, the ideal is to seek help from a physical therapist so that he can start the appropriate treatment. This professional will be able to use some techniques, such as mobilization of the vertebrae of the spine, the first rib, as well as exercises and massages that can help to rebalance the forces that maintain the good positioning of the neck and head, thus avoiding headaches of cervicogenic origin. .
when to go to the doctor
It is advisable to see a general practitioner or orthopedist when:
- The headache is intense and persistent;
- Headache starts or gets worse when you move your neck;
- When it becomes more and more frequent;
- When, in addition to the headache, there is a burning or tingling sensation in the neck, shoulders, arms or hands.
In the consultation, it is important to say exactly what you feel, how long you have noticed these symptoms, if you have been involved in an accident and if you exercise regularly.
These questions help the doctor understand the cause, helping with the diagnosis. In some cases, he may request tests such as X-ray or resonance, but they are not always necessary, because sometimes the doctor can reach the diagnosis only by observing the individual and their symptoms.
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