Not all headaches originate inside the head. Neck-origin headaches are caused by problems with the cervical spine, causing referred pain in the head. For patients who struggle with chronic neck-origin headaches, cervical rhizotomy may provide a long-term solution. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides cervical rhizotomy surgeries near you in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Here, we discuss how this procedure can help relieve headache pain and what to expect.
Key Takeaways
- Cervicogenic headaches are headaches that originate in the neck. They can be caused by cervical facet syndrome, spinal arthritis, a herniated disc, or a neck injury.
- Cervical rhizotomy treats chronic pain, including cervicogenic headaches, by killing the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals.
- Cervical rhizotomy is a fast, minimally invasive procedure that can provide several years of relief.
How Neck Problems Cause Headaches
When experiencing a headache, most people assume that the pain originates from the head. This is not always the case. Headaches may also be referred pain, or pain that is felt in a different part of the body than its origin. A cervicogenic headache, or a neck-origin headache, is caused by problems with the cervical spine or neck. Conditions that may cause cervicogenic headaches include:
- Cervical facet syndrome: Facet joints are small joints located between vertebrae. When the cartilage in a facet joint becomes inflamed, pain occurs.
- Cervical degenerative joint disease: Also called osteoarthritis, this condition is caused by an age-related breakdown of cartilage between vertebrae.
- Cervical herniated disc: Spinal discs provide cushioning for the spine. Damaged discs create a bulge that inflames soft tissues or impinges on the spinal cord.
- Pinched cervical nerve: If a nerve root becomes pinched between bones, inflamed soft tissue, or a herniated disc, it may send faulty pain signals.
- Neck injury: High-contact sports, vehicle accidents, and repeated motions may cause injuries, including whiplash, that lead to neck pain and headaches.
It can be difficult to tell the difference between cervicogenic headaches and other types of headaches. They share similar symptoms, including:
- Pain on one side of the head or face
- Pain around the eyes
- Nausea
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light and sound
The clearest indicator of a cervicogenic headache is pain outside the head. If a patient is feeling pain in their neck, shoulder, or arms, or if their neck is stiff, then the headache is likely cervicogenic.
What Is Cervical Rhizotomy?
Cervical rhizotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats chronic nerve pain by erasing nerve signals. Nerves are fibrous cells that send electrical signals throughout the body, carrying sensory information, such as heat, cold, touch, and pain. If these signals are disrupted, then the information never reaches the brain, and the sensation is never felt. Cervical rhizotomy works by destroying the nerves that convey pain signals from the neck. This disrupts the signal, eliminating the pain.
Rhizotomy works for a wide range of pain-causing conditions, including facet joint syndrome, degenerative joint disease, herniated discs, and more. It also provides several years of relief before the pain returns. This means several years without headaches, allowing patients to live comfortably without relying on medications for everyday functionality.
How Is Cervical Rhizotomy Performed?
At NU-Spine, cervical rhizotomy is performed by outstanding neurosurgeons, including Dr. Branko Skovrlj and Dr. Robert J. Rothrock. The surgeon begins by administering general anesthesia to keep the patient asleep during the procedure. Once the anesthesia has set in, he performs the following:
- He makes a tiny incision over the neck.
- Using tools called retractors, he pulls muscle and skin aside to create a path to the nerve.
- He inserts an endoscope into the opening. An endoscope is a tiny camera that provides a real-time video feed to guide the surgeon as he works.
- He locates the problematic nerve and severs the fiber without damaging nearby tissue.
- He removes the surgical tools and closes the incision.
The procedure takes about 30 minutes to one hour. Afterward, the patient spends a few hours in a recovery room to wake up from anesthesia. Most patients can go home the same day.
Recovery from Cervical Rhizotomy
Some pain, swelling, or bruising around the surgical site is normal. The pain should go away in a few days. Most patients can go back to normal activities within a week after surgery, though they should avoid strenuous activities until cleared by the surgeon. Symptoms of the spine condition should go away immediately. Patients experience fewer headaches or none at all.
Get Treatment for Neck-Origin Headaches Near You in NJ, FL, or PA
Chronic headaches are not inescapable. If you are struggling with frequent neck-origin headaches, transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania locations.
Neck-Origin Headaches and Cervical Rhizotomy FAQ
How do I know if headaches are coming from my neck?
Headaches may be caused by a problem in your neck if you experience pain on one side of the head and are experiencing pain or stiffness in your neck or shoulders.
How long does pain relief from cervical rhizotomy last?
Pain relief from cervical rhizotomy usually lasts several years.
Can cervical rhizotomy be repeated if pain returns?
Yes, cervical rhizotomy can be repeated if the pain returns.