What makes headaches different?

In order to understand headaches, let’s discuss the most impactful type, migraines, followed by tension-type and cervicogenic.

Migraines are defined as headaches that are due to a release of chemicals in the brain and around blood vessels that cause inflammation and pain (1).

  • Duration = 4-72 hours
  • Frequency = variable
  • Severity = moderate to severe
  • Location = unilateral (on one side)
  • Quality = throbbing or pulsating
  • Aggravated by routine physical activity = yes
  • Photophobia (light sensitivity) or phonophobia (loud sound) = yes
  • Nausea and vomiting = either or both
  • Aura (visual or sensory) = likely

Tension-type headaches can arise from neck pain and is usually not severe nor does it interfere with daily activities (1).

  • Duration = 30 minutes to 7 days
  • Frequency = variable
  • Severity = mild to moderate
  • Location = bilateral (on both sides)
  • Quality = pressing or tightening, non-pulsating
  • Aggravated by routine physical activity = no
  • Photophobia (light sensitivity) or phonophobia (loud sound) = can have one but not both
  • Nausea and vomiting = neither
  • Aura (visual or sensory) = not likely

Cervicogenic Headaches are caused by neck pain, with or without an injury, or related to a strain to the neck muscles over time (1, 2). These headaches start with a dull ache in the neck of the back of the head and progress (1, 2). Often neck range of motion is limited (2).

  • Duration = variable
  • Frequency = variable
  • Severity = mild to moderate
  • Location = unilateral neck, shoulder of arm pain, does not shift sides
  • Quality = dull ache in the back of the head
  • Aggravated by routine physical activity = no
  • Photophobia (light sensitivity) or phonophobia (loud sound) = possibly
  • Nausea and vomiting = possibly
  • Aura (visual or sensory) = no

Knowing the type of headache is important because not every headache is a migraine. Tension-type and cervicogenic headaches are two types of headaches easily assessed and treated by the SHOP. At the SHOP, we develop plans and routines to help with headaches in Springfield, MO. We believe in our treatments and implement them throughout our practice to help you achieve decreased pain, improved mobility, and enhanced ability to do the things you love.

If you live in Springfield, MO and the surrounding area, let The SHOP help treat your headaches. Do you want to learn more or get started with treatment?

 

References

1. VA/DoD CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINE for the MANAGEMENT of HEADACHE Department of Veterans Affairs Department of Defense Patient Summary. Accessed June 29, 2026. https://www.healthquality.va.gov/HEALTHQUALITY/guidelines/pain/headache/VA-DOD-CPG-Headache-Patient-Summary.pdf

2. Sjaastad O, Fredriksen TA, Pfaffenrath V. Cervicogenic headache: diagnostic criteria. The Cervicogenic Headache International Study Group. Headache. 1998;38(6):442-445. doi:10.1046/j.1526-4610.1998.3806442.x