Back problems are an important cause of headaches, because when there is any change in the cervical region, the tension that accumulates in the muscles of the upper back and neck produces a painful stimulus to the brain, which responds by generating a headache.
This type of headache is also often known as a tension headache. Learn about other causes of tension headaches and what to do.
Some examples of the main problems related to the spine, which can cause headaches, are:
- Increased muscle tension due to tiredness and stress;
- Deviation in the spine;
- Bad posture;
- Costela cervical;
- Thoracic outlet syndrome.
These changes lead to an imbalance in the head support forces, generating compensations that can compromise the biomechanics of the neck region, causing headaches.
Sometimes, a headache can be confused with a migraine because they generate similar symptoms. However, headaches caused by back problems have some typical characteristics. These characteristics are pain that starts or worsens with neck movements and/or increased sensitivity in the neck region.
How to relieve a headache
To alleviate headaches caused by back problems, there are some steps you can take:
Watch the following video to learn what can relieve back pain, which can also be related to tension headaches:
Furthermore, it is essential to treat the spine to eliminate the problem at its root. In this case, the ideal is to seek help from a physiotherapist so that he can begin the appropriate treatment. This professional may use some techniques, such as mobilization of the vertebrae of the spine, the first rib, as well as exercises and massages that can help 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;
- The 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.
During the consultation, it is important to say exactly how you feel, how long you have noticed these symptoms, whether you have been involved in an accident and whether 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 MRI, but they are not always necessary, as sometimes the doctor can reach a diagnosis only by observing the individual and their symptoms.
