MIGRAINE & CERVICOGENIC HEADACHE MANAGEMENT
Expert Assessment & Targeted Injection Treatments for Headache
Headaches can have many different causes, and effective treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis. At Alton Pain Clinic, we assess patients with persistent headaches to determine whether symptoms are caused by migraine or cervicogenic headache
Where appropriate, we offer a range of ultrasound-guided injections designed to reduce pain, improve function and help patients return to their daily activities.
Understanding Migraine
Migraine is a neurological condition that causes recurrent headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraine attacks can last from several hours to several days and may significantly affect work, family life and overall wellbeing.
While the exact cause of migraine is not fully understood, changes in nerve activity and pain pathways are thought to play an important role.
Symptoms of Migraine
Common symptoms include:
- Moderate to severe headache, often affecting one side of the head
- Throbbing or pulsating pain
- Sensitivity to light, sound or smells
- Nausea or vomiting
- Visual disturbances (migraine aura) in some patients
- Pain that worsens with physical activity
Some people experience migraines occasionally, while others develop chronic migraine, where headaches occur on 15 or more days each month.
Injectable Treatments for Migraine
Treatment recommendations depend on the frequency, severity and type of migraine you experience.
Greater Occipital Nerve (GON) Block
A Greater Occipital Nerve Block involves injecting local anaesthetic, often combined with a corticosteroid, around the greater occipital nerve at the back of the head.
This treatment may help reduce pain in selected patients with migraine, particularly when pain originates around the back of the head or upper neck. Suitability is determined following a comprehensive assessment.
Understanding Cervicogenic Headache
A cervicogenic headache is a headache that originates from structures within the neck, including the cervical joints, muscles, ligaments or nerves. Although the pain is felt in the head, the underlying problem arises from the cervical spine.
These headaches are often mistaken for migraine because some symptoms overlap, making an accurate assessment essential.
Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headache
Symptoms may include:
- Pain beginning in the neck before spreading to the head
- One-sided headache
- Neck stiffness
- Reduced range of neck movement
- Pain made worse by certain neck positions or movements
- Tenderness around the neck and upper shoulders
- Pain around the back of the head or behind the eye
Injectable Treatments for Cervicogenic Headache
Because cervicogenic headaches originate from the neck, treatment focuses on the underlying source of pain rather than the headache itself. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Trigger Point Injections
If muscle tension or myofascial trigger points are contributing to your headache, trigger point injections may help reduce muscle pain and improve movement.
At Alton Pain Clinic, treatment may involve corticosteroid injections where clinically appropriate.
Greater Occipital Nerve (GON) Block
For headaches involving irritation of the greater occipital nerve, a nerve block may help reduce pain and improve symptoms.
This procedure is commonly considered when pain begins at the back of the head and is associated with upper neck discomfort.
Cervical Facet Joint Injections
If your headache originates from the small facet joints in the cervical spine, image-guided cervical facet joint injections may be recommended.
These injections place medication directly into or around the affected joints to help reduce inflammation and confirm whether the joints are contributing to your symptoms.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Not every headache requires injection therapy.
The most appropriate treatment depends on:
- The underlying diagnosis
- The location of your pain
- The severity and frequency of symptoms
- Previous treatments
- Your medical history
Following your consultation, our clinicians will explain the available treatment options and recommend a personalised management plan.
Why Choose Alton Pain Clinic?
At Alton Pain Clinic, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing persistent headaches.
Patients benefit from:
- Thorough musculoskeletal assessment
- Individualised treatment plans
- Ultrasound-guided procedures where appropriate
- Evidence-based injectable treatments
- Ongoing support throughout your recovery
What our patients say
Find the Cause of Your Headaches
Persistent headaches can have a significant impact on your quality of life, but identifying the underlying cause is the first step towards effective treatment. Whether your symptoms are due to chronic migraine, a cervicogenic headache, or another musculoskeletal condition, our clinicians will carry out a thorough assessment to determine the most appropriate management plan.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer evidence-based injectable treatments, including Greater Occipital Nerve (GON) Blocks, Trigger Point Injections, and Cervical Facet Joint Injections, where clinically appropriate. If you’re experiencing persistent headaches or neck-related pain, book a consultation to discuss your symptoms and explore your treatment options.
FAQs
What is the difference between migraine and a cervicogenic headache?
Migraine is a neurological condition, whereas a cervicogenic headache originates from structures within the neck. Although symptoms can overlap, treatment differs depending on the underlying cause
What is a Greater Occipital Nerve Block?
A Greater Occipital Nerve Block is an injection around the greater occipital nerve at the back of the head. It may help relieve pain in selected patients with migraine or cervicogenic headache.
How long do headache injections last?
The duration of relief varies depending on the type of injection, the underlying condition and the individual patient. Your clinician will discuss what you can expect during your consultation.