Evaluation and care for tension-type and cervicogenic headache in West Hills, CA — including headaches linked to jaw muscle tension, posture, and the neck.
Tension-Type Headache
Tension-type headache is the most common form of headache. It typically produces a steady, pressing or tightening pain on both sides of the head, often described as a band-like sensation. It is frequently associated with tenderness in the jaw, temple, and neck muscles, and can be aggravated by clenching, stress, and poor posture.
Cervicogenic Headache
Cervicogenic headache is pain referred to the head from structures in the neck (cervical spine). It is usually one-sided, may radiate from the back of the head toward the forehead or eye, and is often provoked by neck movement or sustained postures. Accurate diagnosis is important because treatment differs from migraine.
The Role of the Jaw, Muscles, and Posture
The muscles of the jaw, head, and neck function as an interconnected system. Overactive jaw muscles, nighttime clenching, and forward-head posture can contribute to or worsen these headaches. Evaluating the jaw and cervical region together often reveals treatable contributing factors.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on the pattern and location of pain, a clinical examination of the jaw, head, and neck muscles, and criteria consistent with ICHD-3. This distinguishes tension-type and cervicogenic headache from migraine and TMD-related pain, which can occur at the same time.
Treatment
Management may include physical therapy and posture correction, jaw muscle treatment, occlusal appliance therapy when clenching contributes, stress and behavioral strategies, and coordination with other providers when needed. Care is directed at the specific muscular and structural factors identified during evaluation.
Related Pages
Patients are seen at the West Hills office from Los Angeles County, Ventura County, West Hills, Canoga Park, Woodland Hills, Calabasas, Sherman Oaks & Encino, Northridge & Chatsworth, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Agoura Hills & Westlake Village.
