Headaches from the cervical spine

[Fluidic Kimbo]

I went to see a neurologist earlier this week, and he sent me to get an MRI of my head, so we'll see what the scan comes back with.

I get headaches now and again, but strangely they start out as sensations in my face, mostly around my eye. They say that these kinds of headaches are typically 'referred pain' from the cervical spine, for example if there's nerve damage in the cervical spine, then you can have sensations of pain in the face.

Anyone ever been through this?

[almostgone]

C-spine surgery? Yes.
Referred pain as you describe? No, but my main problem areas were C-3 to C-6. Caused much grief with my left arm.

My wife has headaches, pain, and pressure in/around her eyes, cheeks, and forehead, but it seems to be sinus/allergy related.

[Honkey_Kong]

This is what happened to Paul Orndorff's arm after his cervical spine injury



That bicep never recovered from the atrophy.

[almostgone]

It's a hard struggle, H_K.

[wango]

I went to see a neurologist earlier this week, and he sent me to get an MRI of my head, so we'll see what the scan comes back with.

I get headaches now and again, but strangely they start out as sensations in my face, mostly around my eye. They say that these kinds of headaches are typically 'referred pain' from the cervical spine, for example if there's nerve damage in the cervical spine, then you can have sensations of pain in the face.

Anyone ever been through this?

You also have a RC tear. It’s common that your change in the mechanics of your shoulder/arm brings in the muscles that move your scapula (like the upper traps & levator scapula). The change in movement patterns of those can easily refer pain & cause headaches.

Congrats on the nice health coverage since they are doing a precautionary MRI of your brain. Some cervical x-rays would be helpful as well.

[lovbyts]

They got your MRI back

[Frank777]

I'm sorry you faced this issue. I read that a cervicogenic headache usually starts in the neck and is referred to as bony structures or soft tissues of the neck. And it usually starts after neck movement and accompanies a reduced range of motion of the neck. Have you experienced anything like this?
The good news is that most cervicogenic headaches get better with physical therapy and pain relievers. Though I wouldn't self-treat. At least, check the info about the meds you are going to take online. I usually use the Canada Drugs site for this purpose.
I hope you will find out the root of the problem and your doctor will choose a proper treatment.