Neck Issues and Their Surprising Link to Headaches: What You Need to Know

Cervical spondylosis can also cause headaches!

Hello Dr.
Chang: Recently, I started treatment with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who specializes in brain disorders for acupuncture therapy.
He asked me several questions, including whether my pillow is too high while sleeping, to which I answered yes.
He then suggested that I apply heat to my head and neck and lower the height of my pillow, mentioning that it could be a problem with my cervical spine causing the occipital headache.
I would like to ask Dr.
Chang if cervical spine disorders can indeed cause occipital headaches, but may not be visible on CT or MRI scans? Can medication effectively treat this condition? It’s already difficult enough dealing with schizophrenia! Is it possible that schizophrenia and cervical spine issues occur in the same area of the brain? Thank you, Patient Ah Peng.

A Peng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/01/19

Dr. Zhang Zhehong reply Psychiatry

Cervical spondylosis requires confirmation through cervical CT, while schizophrenia is a brain disorder.
The two conditions differ in their nature.
Headaches can be addressed through both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.
Non-pharmacological strategies may include moderate aerobic exercise, such as walking for half an hour daily, and muscle relaxation training, such as yoga, tai chi, and qigong.
Exercise can enhance the brain's pain relief mechanisms, improve mood, and reduce anxiety and depression.

Reply Date: 2011/01/19

More Info

Hello 阿鵬,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the relationship between neck issues, particularly cervical spine problems, and headaches, especially those localized in the back of the head. Your experience with acupuncture and the advice from your practitioner about adjusting your pillow height and applying heat to your neck are common recommendations for addressing tension and discomfort that can arise from cervical spine issues.

To address your question, yes, cervical spine disorders can indeed lead to headaches, particularly tension-type headaches or cervicogenic headaches. These types of headaches are often caused by issues in the neck, such as muscle tension, nerve irritation, or joint dysfunction. The pain can radiate from the neck to the back of the head, and sometimes even to the forehead or temples.

Regarding your concern about CT or MRI scans not revealing cervical spine problems, it is important to note that while these imaging techniques are excellent for identifying structural abnormalities such as herniated discs, fractures, or tumors, they may not always detect functional issues like muscle tension or minor joint dysfunction. In some cases, the pain may be due to soft tissue problems that do not show up on imaging studies. This is why a thorough clinical evaluation, including a physical examination and a detailed history of your symptoms, is crucial in diagnosing the cause of your headaches.

As for treatment, medication can help alleviate symptoms, but it often depends on the underlying cause. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be effective for reducing inflammation and pain. Physical therapy is also a common approach, focusing on exercises to strengthen neck muscles, improve posture, and increase flexibility. In some cases, chiropractic care or acupuncture, as you are currently experiencing, can provide relief by addressing musculoskeletal imbalances.

You mentioned the concern about schizophrenia and its relation to cervical spine issues. While both conditions can affect the brain, they are fundamentally different in nature. Schizophrenia is a complex mental health disorder characterized by a range of symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations, and cognitive difficulties. It is primarily a neurobiological condition, and while stress and physical discomfort can exacerbate symptoms, they do not directly cause schizophrenia or its symptoms.
It's essential to manage both your physical and mental health. If you are experiencing significant distress or impairment due to your mental health condition, it is crucial to seek support from a mental health professional. They can help you navigate your symptoms and provide appropriate interventions.

In summary, neck issues can indeed lead to headaches, and while imaging studies may not always reveal the problem, a comprehensive approach to treatment—including medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications—can be beneficial. Additionally, addressing any mental health concerns with a qualified professional is equally important for your overall well-being.

If you have further questions or need clarification on any points, please feel free to ask. Take care of yourself, and I wish you the best in your journey toward health and wellness.

Best regards,
Dr. 張哲鴻

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